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Rand McNally 2023 Road Atlas: United States, Canada, Mexico (Rand McNally Road Atlas) Map – May 3, 2022

There is a newer edition of this item:.

• Print length 136 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Rand McNally
• Publication date May 3, 2022
• Dimensions 10.75 x 0.38 x 15.25 inches
• ISBN-10 052802633X
• ISBN-13 978-0528026331
• See all details

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From the Publisher

Rand mcnally 2023 road atlases.

Rand McNally 2023 Road Atlas

The Rand McNally Road Atlas is the most trusted and best-selling atlas on the market. This updated 2023 edition contains maps of every U.S. state and Canadian province, an overview map of Mexico, and detailed inset maps of over 350 cities and 25 national parks. Road construction and conditions contact information for every state conveniently located above the maps. Contains mileage chart showing distances between 90 North American cities and national parks along with a driving times map.

Other Features

Rand McNally presents "The National Parks by Decade," a review of park history that begins more than a century ago, with the first wild and wonderful place to achieve park status---Yellowstone.

Tell Rand! As much as we work to keep our atlases up to date, conditions change quickly and new construction projects begin frequently. If you know of something we haven’t captured in our atlas, let us know at randmcnally.com/tellrand.

Tourism websites and phone numbers for every U.S. state and Canadian province on map pages.

Product Details

ISBN: 052802633X

EAN: 9780528026331

UPC: 070609026336

Dimensions: 10.875" x 15.375"

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Rand McNally (May 3, 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Map ‏ : ‎ 136 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 052802633X
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0528026331
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.4 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 10.75 x 0.38 x 15.25 inches
• #245 in United States Atlases & Maps (Books)
• #338 in Maps (Books)

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Rand mcnally.

With the iconic Road Atlas leading the way, Rand McNally products have helped travelers make the most of their road trips for more than 100 years. Our line of atlases, wall maps, travel guides, activity books, and other fine publications are developed to inspire an interest in the world and enrich life’s journey.

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Best United States Atlases & Maps of 2024

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

United States Atlases & Maps offer a comprehensive and detailed view of the country's geography. These products provide a range of information, including topography, population centers, transportation networks, and natural features. They also include state and city maps that highlight major attractions and landmarks. These atlases and maps are ideal for travelers, students, and professionals who need accurate and up-to-date geographical information. With their high-quality printing and durable materials, these products are a reliable resource for anyone seeking to explore and navigate the United States.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 United States Atlases & Maps

National geographic road atlas: adventure edition.

National Geographic Road Atlas: Adventure Edition is an essential guide for anyone planning a road trip across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. This atlas includes up-to-date road maps for all 50 states, with inset maps that detail major cities and popular attractions. What sets this atlas apart is the inclusion of detailed maps and recommendations for the top 100 destinations for adventure, as well as the top 24 most visited national parks. The heavy-duty spiral binding and clear plastic cover ensure durability and easy reading. Overall, this book is a valuable resource for travelers seeking adventure on the open road.

Rand McNally 2023 Road Atlas & National Park Guide

The Rand McNally 2023 Road Atlas & National Park Guide is a comprehensive guide to America's national parks, complete with maps, photos, and essential information. The 132-page National Park Guide highlights the best trails, drives, natural wonders, programs, museums, and lodges in each park. The road atlas is updated and includes maps of every U.S. state, Canadian province, and an overview map of Mexico. Inset maps of over 350 cities and 63 U.S. national parks are also included. The book also provides tourism websites and phone numbers for every U.S. state and Canadian province. With its spiral binding and dimensions of 10.875" x 15.3125", this book is perfect for planning road trips.

Rand McNally 2023 Large Scale Road Atlas

The Rand McNally 2023 Large Scale Road Atlas is a must-have for anyone planning a road trip across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With 35% larger maps than the standard atlas version, it includes over 350 detailed city inset and national park maps, a comprehensive index, and road construction and conditions contact information for every state. The spiral binding allows for easy use and the convenient page locator map makes finding the map you need quick and effortless. Overall, this atlas is a reliable and practical resource for anyone looking to explore North America by road.

Rand McNally 2024 Large Scale Road Atlas

The Rand McNally 2024 Large Scale Road Atlas - 100th Anniversary Collector's Edition is a must-have for road travelers. Celebrating its centennial anniversary, this special collector's edition features custom covers showcasing the Road Atlas covers throughout the years. The updated 2024 edition contains maps of every U.S. state, expanded coverage of Canada and Mexico, over 350 detailed city inset and national park maps, a comprehensive index, and road construction and conditions contact information for every state. The spiral binding allows the book to lay open easily. Overall, this atlas is accurate, reliable, and perfect for planning road trips.

Rand McNally Folded Map: United States Map

The Rand McNally Folded Map: United States Map is a well-designed and easy-to-read map that provides accurate and reliable information about the country's roads, cities, airports, boundaries, and more. The map also includes a mileage chart, driving times map, toll roads chart, national facts and symbols, and visitor information. Measuring 4.125" x 9" and unfolding to 25.5" x 36.75", this map is compact and perfect for on-the-go use. Overall, this map is a great resource for travelers and locals alike, offering a wealth of information in a user-friendly format.

Rand McNally 2023 Road Atlas

The Rand McNally 2023 Road Atlas is a comprehensive and trusted tool for all travelers. This updated edition features detailed maps of every U.S. state, Canadian province, and even an overview map of Mexico. It also includes over 350 city and 25 national park inset maps, as well as contact information for road construction and conditions. The atlas also contains a mileage chart showing distances between 90 North American cities and national parks, and a driving times map. Additionally, Rand McNally presents "The National Parks by Decade," a historical review of park history that begins with Yellowstone. Overall, this atlas is an essential resource for any road trip planner.

Rand McNally 2023 Deluxe Motor Carriers' Road Atlas

The Rand McNally 2023 Deluxe Motor Carriers' Road Atlas is a must-have for truck drivers and anyone who travels on the road frequently. The updated maps highlight state and national designated routes, restricted routes, low clearance, and weigh station locations. The book also includes state mileage charts and 40,000+ city-to-city mileages. This edition is an excellent resource for planning routes and avoiding potential hazards on the road. Overall, the Rand McNally 2023 Deluxe Motor Carriers' Road Atlas is an essential tool for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road.

The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2023

The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2023 is a comprehensive reference book covering a wide range of topics, including sports, pop culture, science, technology, U.S. history, world geography, and business. This best-selling book is praised for its reliability and up-to-date information, making it a valuable resource for school, library, business, and home use. The 2023 edition includes a special feature on the Coronavirus status report, alongside other features such as the 2022 election results, top news topics, year in sports, and more. Overall, The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2023 is a must-have for trivia enthusiasts and anyone seeking a reliable source of information.

Rand McNally 2023 Midsize Road Atlas

The Rand McNally 2023 Midsize Road Atlas is the perfect travel companion for anyone looking to explore North America. This updated edition includes maps of every U.S. state and Canadian province, as well as detailed maps of over 50 North American cities. It also features a mileage chart showing distances between 77 cities and national parks with driving times map. One unique feature is "The National Parks by Decade," a review of park history that begins more than a century ago. Overall, this paperback atlas is a must-have for any road trip enthusiast.

Ireland Map (National Geographic Adventure Map

The National Geographic Adventure Map of Ireland is an excellent tool for those who want to explore the Emerald Isle. With a detailed and accurate design, the map includes the location of cities and towns, marked road networks, and secondary routes for those who want to venture off the beaten path. The map also features content on recreational, ecological, cultural, and historical destinations, making it an ideal companion to a guidebook. Printed on durable synthetic paper, the map is waterproof, tear-resistant, and tough enough to withstand the rigors of international travel. Overall, this map is an excellent resource for anyone planning to explore the island of Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. what is the best atlas of the united states.

The Rand McNally Road Atlas is the most trusted and best-selling atlas on the market. This updated 2023 edition contains maps of every U.S. state and Canadian province, an overview map of Mexico, and detailed inset maps of over 350 cities and 25 national parks.

2. Can you still buy map books?

Online stores such as Amazon will likely have the largest selection of maps. You can also purchase map collections such as the Road Atlas that will have a handful of different regions bound together in one book.

3. What were the old map books called?

Maps, the publishers of the Thomas Guide, previously known as Popular Street Atlas, Street Guide, and Popular Atlas, was started in Oakland, California, in 1915 by cartographer George Coupland Thomas and his two brothers, who were business partners.

During our united states atlases & map research, we found 1,200+ united states atlases & map products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 50,197 customer reviews through our big data system to write the united states atlases & maps list. We found that most customers choose united states atlases & maps with an average price of $17.39.

Wilson Cook is a talented writer who has an MFA in creative writing from Williams College and has published more than 50 books acquired by hundreds of thousands of people from various countries by now. He is an inveterate reading lover as he has read a vast amount of books since childhood.

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Best travel map of USA

Which travel maps of the USA are best?

With GPS capability in our phones and cars, we’re able to get directions instantly to almost anywhere. What we don’t see with directional apps is the big picture we see when we look at a map. A travel map allows us to plan trips in a way that a smartphone can’t.

Today we buy far more than city and state maps. If you’re looking for a map of the top 100 destinations for hiking, cycling, skiing, birding and much more, take a look at the National Geographic Road Atlas 2021: Adventure Edition .

What to know before you buy a USA travel map

Foldable maps: Foldable maps are the smallest at about the size of a standard envelope, so they can be easily stored and carried in small spaces. Folding maps typically unfold to about 2 by 3 feet so you can see lots of detail.

Bound maps: A road atlas is a bound book with many pages. Road atlases are typically about the size of a sheet of printer paper and the number of pages varies from a few dozen to a hundred or more. There are lots of details because each page is a close-up of one small segment of the city, state or region.

Wall maps: These are large maps that you hang on the wall as ways to track your adventures across the USA. One type of travel map is the scratch map that’s a fun way to track your travels.  

National: You can buy a travel map of the entire United States, the best way to get an overview of the vastness of the country’s nearly 4 million square miles. The USA has 47,000 miles of interstate highway, the fastest and easiest way to travel. But the USA also has another 4 million miles of roads that are nearly invisible to most apps and GPS.

State: There are maps of every one of the 50 states. Each provides 50 times the detail found on a map of the entire USA. 

City: You can find maps of all the major cities that allow you to zoom in even farther to pinpoint very small details. 

Regional: Regional maps of the USA focus on geographical regions like the Rocky Mountains, Gulf Coast and Great Lakes. Each gives users a bigger picture than state maps.

What to look for in a quality USA travel map

Maps for adventurers.

You can choose from maps that feature National Parks of the United States, national monuments, national wildlife refuges, wild and scenic rivers, mountain peaks, campgrounds, RV parks and many more.

Maps for active outdoors people

Maps of hiking trails in parks and forests include distances, difficulty ratings, trail features and sights to be found in the surrounding area. Outdoors people with special activity interests enjoy maps of things like boat launching sites, ski areas and skydiving drop zones. 

Special interest maps

Many tourists happily buy maps of places like the Napa and Sonoma wine countries. Sports fans like maps of baseball and football stadiums. Golfers enjoy maps of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, and more. 

Scenic routes

The USA is full of natural beauty, and road trips are the best way to see as many stunning landscapes and scenic views as you can. People who like driving scenic mountain highways will want a map of the Blue Ridge Parkway. America’s favorite scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains is 469 miles of slow-paced and relaxing driving with stunning vistas. 

How much you can expect to spend on a USA travel map

Folding paper maps cost $5-$10. Most road atlases and scratch-off maps cost $10-$30. 

USA travel map FAQ

Is a bound travel atlas the same as a folding paper map.

A. Folding paper maps have two sides. Bound atlases have hundreds of pages. Folding maps present you with the big picture, while atlases allow for more close-up detail of smaller areas.

What are paper maps really best for?

A. Paper maps are several times larger than GPS screens. The size and scope of what you see is a full perspective of your entire trip rather than a small image that gives turn-by-turn directions.

What’s the best USA travel map to buy?

Top usa travel map .

National Geographic Road Atlas 2021: Adventure Edition

What you need to know: This 11 by 15-inch atlas is spiral-bound for durability and ease of use.

What you’ll love: This 144-page bound set of maps is the most accurate and easy-to-read road map on the market today. Extra features for the adventurer include America’s top 100 destinations for hiking, cycling, skiing, birding and much more.

What you should consider: The section on America’s 24 favorite National Parks includes maps, photos, trails, campgrounds, lodging and tips for enjoying top sights.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top USA travel map for the money

Rand McNally 2022 Motor Carriers’ Road Atlas

What you need to know: America’s best-selling trucking atlas is 208 pages designed to meet the needs of professional drivers and RVers, too.

What you’ll love: This 10-inch by 15-inch bound book helps drivers save time and money while staying compliant. Details include restricted routes, areas of low clearance and locations of weigh stations. The separate 22-page mileage directory includes more than 40,000 approved truck routes with city-to-city mileage.

What you should consider: Travel with even more safety and confidence with phone numbers of permit agencies, and road construction and severe weather hotlines.

Worth checking out

Bright Standards Scratch Off Map of the United States with Travel Journal

What you need to know: Proudly display your own visual travel journal with this 17-inch by 24-inch scratch map of the USA.

What you’ll love: Track your road trips and wanderings with a complete scratch-off kit with panels, flags, map pins and adventure stickers. This item includes a separate 12-inch by 16-inch National Park scratch-off poster. This colorful map displays 42 must-see landmarks and 15 adventure trips. The 5-inch by 8-inch travel journal has 60 stitch-sewn pages and an inner flap for travel tracker keepsakes.

What you should consider: This map arrives rolled in a tube, so give it time to lay flat.

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Thousands of updates

Enhanced readability of standard map text

City/town listings color-coded by city/town size

Legend icons noting wildlife refuges, state parks, welcome centers, monuments and memorials

Exit numbers identified on toll roads and other major highways

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21 Best Travel Guides for RVers

If you're planning to hit the road, you should hit these books first these are the best travel guides for rvers….

• 1 If you're planning to hit the road, you should hit these books first! These are the best travel guides for RVers…
• 2.1 1. Guide to National Parks of the United States
• 2.2 2. 50 States 5000 Ideas
• 2.3 3. Where Should We Camp Next?
• 2.4 4. National Geographic Road Atlas
• 2.5 5. Rand McNally Large Scale Road Atlas
• 2.6 6. Casino Camping
• 2.7 7-21. RV Lifestyle Guides

They say for one to travel, all they have to do is open a book. I, myself, have discovered incredible places, both real and imaginary, thanks to countless books I’ve read over the years. 

As RVers, Jennifer and I are always looking for resources to improve our travels, and books have been a big part of our travel kit. 

So, we’ve put together a list of must-have travel books for RVers. This list includes incredibly helpful atlases and guides for any RVer or road traveler.

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases at no added cost to you. Thank you for your support.

21 of the Best Travel Guides for RVers

To make it easy for you, I’ve made a “ shopping list ” of these books on Amazon. So you can just click that shopping list link if you want to buy one or more of these books. Or, you can buy them individually by clicking their titles below.

At the end, I grouped a bulleted list of very thorough travel books under one category: the RV Lifestyle guides. These are topic- and region-specific travel books that will help you beyond guiding you where to go on your travels. 

1. Guide to National Parks of the United States

National parks are perhaps the biggest inspiration for people to jump in an RV and hit the road. There is no better way to see the vast variety of gorgeous landscapes our country has to offer than by visiting its national parks.

This best-selling guide was created by the leader of all things natural: National Geographic. With that of authority behind it, you know it’s very well-researched with enticing photos to get you excited. 

It has over 300 photos and 80 colorful maps of the 59 national parks in the United States. Its useful content includes travel planning tips, itineraries, professional insights into the parks, and more.

It’s truly a must-have for every RVer, both new and veteran.

2. 50 States 5000 Ideas

This is another National Geographic guide that’s definitely worth buying. As you know, Jennifer and I love serendipitous travel, where we just stumble upon and embrace unexpecting things. But this book is excellent for creating a loose or even detailed itinerary. 

It outlines where to go, when to go, what to see, and what to do. Its suggestions include everything from dude ranches to out-of-the-way museums, beaches to national parks, dinosaur trails to the oldest street in NYC, and more. 

It definitely has something for everyone in each state.

3. Where Should We Camp Next?

This camping guide is for people who are planning a “family-friendly budget-conscious summer camping trip.” It features more than 300 of the best camping and glamping spots in all 50 U.S. states. 

(Check this out if you don’t know the difference between glamping vs. camping .)

Whether you like to camp or glamp, this is a useful resource for finding amazing campgrounds and unique accommodations.

4. National Geographic Road Atlas

Every RVer needs a quality atlas. Yes, our electronic devices and GPS systems are incredibly helpful for finding our way. However, devices and GPS fail. Phone signals fail, and batteries die. 

That is why every responsible RVers should own a road atlas, and this is the one we recommend. To no surprise as to why we like it, it’s created by National Geographic. 

This atlas, of course, includes detailed maps, but it also has guidebook-like recommendations. That’s why we recommend this road atlas more than any other. 

Well, this and one other really great atlas…

5. Rand McNally Large Scale Road Atlas 

Rand McNally is known for mapping, navigation, and road travel so it’s no surprise they’re on this list. They have quite a few resources available for RVers, but we like this large-scale road atlas.

The maps of every U.S. state in this atlas are 35% larger than the standard atlas version. So, it’s perfect for older travelers or road-weary eyes. 

It also includes over 350 detailed city inset and national park maps. This one features: “Rand McNally presents The National Parks by Decade, a review of park history that begins more than a century ago, with the first wild and wonderful place to achieve park status—Yellowstone.”

6. Casino Camping

It’s no secret that a lot of RVers like to gamble. So, this is an excellent resource for those who want to shape their travel plans around slot machines and table games. 

But, this is actually also a great resource for boondockers or anyone looking for a free or cheap place to park overnight . This guide outlines RV-friendly casinos throughout America.

Each casino description includes:

• Contact information
• Description
• Gaming, food & entertainment
• Lodging & RV parking information
• Driving directions

7-21. RV Lifestyle Guides

If you didn’t know already, Jennifer and I created an entire series of RV travel ebooks. From beginner guides to 7-day adventure itineraries, we’ve used our decade of living the RV lifestyle to help you make the most of yours.

You can see our whole assortment of RV Travel ebooks here . 

Our guides include: 

• RV Buying Secrets
• The Beginners Guide to Boondocking
• The Complete Guide to Boondocking (Print Version)
• The Ultimate Guide to Cheap or Free RV Camping Sites
• Boondocking & Free RV Camping Ebook Bundle

Our adventure guides outline complete itineraries for a wide range of beautiful destinations. They cover things to do, places to see, where to stay, and so much more! The destinations include:

• Adirondack Park and Finger Lakes
• Florida Keys
• Florida’s Atlantic Coast
• Florida’s Gulf Coast
• Great Lakes
• Southern Utah
• Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
• Yellowstone National Park

It may seem self-serving to include our ebooks on this list, but, in truth, we painstakingly created these guides with fellow RVers in mind. We created these guides for you . 

These aren’t just some 10-page ebooks that other sites try to pawn off on you, but rather highly in-depth travel guides. We experienced all of these things first-hand, putting us in a unique position to highlight the best things to do and see. 

Our goal was to save you hours (if not days!) of planning and hand you tried-and-true itineraries on a silver platter.  If you’re interested in more than one, be sure to check out the bundles. We hope you enjoy these adventures as much as we have and still do!

Published on 2022-03-29

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

4 Responses to “21 Best Travel Guides for RVers”

June 20, 2023at8:43 pm , Amy Nichols said:

All the books listed here are good. We usually cross-reference across many resources. My favorite atlas is DeLorme’s. I always have it open on my lap when we are traveling, and keep an eye out for the next unexpected adventure. We are slowly building our collection for all the states we travel through. DeLorme’s gives us the detail we can’t get from atlases with one-state-per-page (or two), and includes a lot of interesting information. If you can afford them (about $25/state), I recommend them.

June 23, 2023at10:18 am , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Thanks for sharing this, Amy! Team RV Lifestyle

March 29, 2022at4:25 pm , Fred Bretzloff said:

Hello my name is Fred Bretzloff. and I will be in Tennessee looking at property on from the 14th to the 18th and was curious whether you would be in town my wife and I would love to have the opportunity of meeting you so if you could let me know I would appreciate it thank you.

April 01, 2022at9:09 am , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Hi Fred — Mike and Jen really don’t know their schedule right now for those dates. They tend to do a lot of things spontaneously. If they do any meet and greets they will be sure to let everyone know – but they rarely have anything locked in that far ahead and right now aren’t sure. Team RV Lifestyle

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American Highway Pocket Atlas

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This convenient pocket atlas for North America offers compact road maps that provide all the coverage of a standard atlas in a fraction of the size. Covers the United States, Canada and Mexico in a handy format that will fit in your pocket. More than 56 up-to-date, accurate maps identify secondary roads, major cities, in a compact package.

Features include

• Clear, crisp road maps of all 50 states, with a city index by state
• Canada and Mexico Maps
• Mileage Chart

Custom covering and wholesale pricing available, please contact  Dave Knipfer  directly or call (866) 525-2298 Toll Free for details.

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Best RV Road Atlas

If you are planning for RV driving for adventure, then you need to equip yourself with details of your routes, destinations, parks, and everything that you need to enjoy your road trip or camping.

There are so many atlases to help you with information regarding the places you may want to visit, with landmarks, mileage, maps, and more. In this article, you have the best RV road atlas reviews to consider for your travel plan.

Table of Contents

Features to Consider Before Buying the Best RV Road Atlas

It is required of you to check the details of the atlas before you can buy it. Is it the right choice for your travel plan? In this case, you should always be keen to make a choice that would be helpful and some of the things to consider here include:

Destination Location

You need to buy an atlas that covers the locations you are planning to visit. Of course, there is no need to buy something that details locations of places you might never visit. If you want to explore the different States in the U.S, then you can get an atlas with all the States.

Your atlas should be written in a language that you can understand with ease. In this article, all the atlases that we have compiled are written in English language. Therefore, you should make sure that you understand the language first before you commit to buy.

Design of the Atlas

The design of the atlas is how it looks from the cover to the pages. Some come with laminated pages and that would be advantageous when it comes to durability. Others are spiral-bound to make them easy to use. You should get the design of the atlas that matches your taste.

Maps and Distances

The importance of any atlas is to offer you all the details that you need including the maps, mileage, and distances from place to place. In this case, you should check the clarity of the maps, and the accuracy of the scales for calculating distances.

Readability

The maps and content of the atlas should be easy to read. This will make them easy to use. Therefore, if you are looking for an atlas with good RV road maps, then you need to check on readability of the maps, and the contents of the atlas.

Updates and Versions

Atlases come in different versions and if you want to catch up with the new developments, then you should check and buy updated versions.

RV road atlases are helpful for RV drivers and for adventure. They come with details and information of places and maps with distances and can be used for travel planning. In addition to that, it details the information of different destinations, parks, amenities, and road conditions among other useful details.

What is the Best RV Road Atlas?

Based on the user information, Rand McNally 2021 Road Atlas is rated as the best of all and captures all the States in the U.S. The runners up for this is National Geographic Maps Road Atlas that has also been trusted for reliable and accurate maps and information regarding the different places in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Top 7 Best Road Atlas for RV Reviews

After comparing several atlases, we picked the below seven options for you. They are the best and reliable when it comes to the accuracy of the information, and covers different places both in the United States and outside. This includes the following:

National Geographic Maps Road Atlas

This National Geographic Road Atlas RV & Camping Edition is written in English and captures detailed information of road maps to guide you during your travel while in the U.S. The atlas captures all the 50 states and that makes it an essential guide for any traveler wishing to adventure in any of the states.

Points of Interest

The 144-page atlas is what you will use to locate attractive sites in the United States while on your vacation trip. As it details the top 100 destinations for adventure, you can really make this National geographic Maps Road Atlas your travel companion.

Publication and other Details

This atlas is still a recent publication produced in August, 2020, and you can rest assured that it captures the recent developments and attraction sites.

• Written in English and easy to understand.
• Contains mileage information for distances.
• Detailed destinations and routes for all the states in the United States.
• Spiral binding hence easy to use.
• Looks attractive and affordable.
• Easy to read details and maps.
• Heavy-duty and durable plastic cover.
• The large state maps are too much compressed.

Expert Opinion: Since it contains maps of each state, it is a good companion when exploring the different states but not the US as a whole. The details are also clear and updated and hence is a recommended road atlas.

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Rand McNally 2021 Road Atlas

Rand McNally Road Atlas is a large-scale spiral bound atlas with 264 pages all written in English. If you are looking for a travel guide atlas with maps of all the States in the United States of America, then Rand McNally Road Atlas should be your greatest companion.

The advantages with the maps that come in this Rand McNally Road Atlas are larger by 35% compared to that of the standard atlas version and that makes it easy to read. As the name gives, it is a large atlas and a wonderful guide for travel arrangements.

Destinations

This atlas captures the national park maps and mileage information of distances from one point to the other. It also details all the information regarding the road conditions and constructions. In addition to that, Rand McNally Road Atlas captures driving times and you can use the information to plan your journey from one state to the other.

• Relatively large maps for easy reading.
• Captures accurate and detailed information.
• Mileage charts and well captured.
• Attractive and durable cover.
• Captures all the 50 states in the U.S.
• It does not capture the Canadian provinces.

Expert Opinion: If you want to explore the United States, then you should get a copy of this great guide. It is detailed with maps and routes, national parks, and other attractive destinations that are useful for travel. It is also affordable and recommendable.

Chandler O’Leary Road Atlas

Chandler O’Leary Road Atlas is a 224-page English atlas with detailed coastal routes and adventure destinations. If you are planning for the Coastal tour or road trip, then you may need this awesome guide. It is a great piece that captures national parks, historic sites, and Major cities up and down the Coast.

With this atlas, you have all kinds of adventures to enjoy on your trip. It is the best camping atlas that you can get for forest adventures up and down the coast, historic highways for road trips, and national parks among other sites.

Publication and Other Details

This awesome atlas or guide to the coast was published in April, 2019, and is still an updated guide that you can consider for your trip. It is easy to read and looks attractive from the cover.

• Simple and easy to understand.
• Covers all the West Coast destinations.
• Detailed with landmarks and attractive sites.
• Also great for forest adventures.
• Affordable and competitive pricing.
• Does not cover outside the West Coast destinations.

Expert opinion: Chandler O’Leary Road Atlas covers the West Coast and everything that you need from destinations, routes, landmarks, and distances. It also features forest adventures that you can enjoy while in the Coast among other useful details hence is a great travel companion for the West Coast trips.

Benchmark Maps Road Atlas

Benchmark Maps Road Atlas is a 96-page English guide for road trips in Utah. If you want to enjoy your adventures while in Utah, then Benchmark Maps Road Atlas is the right guide for you. It captures the top 5 national parks for recreation in the South and is a great companion for travel.

Benchmark Maps Road Atlas has captured some of the awesome destinations including hunting areas and fishing spots among other attraction sites. It is a great RV road atlas with comprehensive information and details that are easy to follow.

Map and Other Details

In this Benchmark Maps Road Atlas, there are recreational maps, metro, and landscape maps. All the maps come with good scales that you can use to calculate distances with ease. It also features all the roads in Utah that you can drive on, and other great and useful landmarks. 

• Detailed and easy to use.
• Accurate map scales for distance and mileage.
• Covers important landmarks and destinations.
• Good for road trips and recreational purposes.
• Looks attractive from the cover.
• It does not cover other places outside Utah.

Expert Opinion: Benchmark Maps Road Atlas as the name puts only covers Utah and destinations that you can visit while on your trip. It also shows landmarks, distances, and attractive sites to visit for adventure in Utah. Therefore, it is recommended for Utah travelers.

Ron Samson Smart Travel RV Atlas

This is a revised and updated 2 nd edition of the best road atlas for RV. It features all the details that you need to have for your travel needs. With this guide, you get the details of important amenities, suggested routes, and what you can do in each of the states. It also includes updated information of notable places and contacts that you can use to plan your visit, among other great details.

48 Chapters

This guide details information for the 48 states in each chapter. This makes Ron Samson Smart Travel RV Atlas easy to use. You can just get to the chapter with the state that you want to visit and you get all the information you want without hassle.

Content Details

The content details found in this travel guide covers the amenities in each state you are going to visit, RV parks, national parks, suggested routes, and to do lists for each state. This makes travel planning an easy task since you have everything including amenities and the costs.

• Comprehensive details about each state.
• Well updated and easy to use.
• Comes with a competitive and affordable price.
• Each chapter handles each state hence good for state visits.
• Includes all amenities, contact information, and costs for planning purposes.
• Some states and services are not well detailed.

Expert opinion: Ron Samson Smart Travel RV Atlas is a great companion for RV enthusiasts and travelers who want to explore the States. It is useful for planning as it captures amenities and costs besides other useful details.

Trailer Life RV Road Atlas

Trailer Life RV Road Atlas is the best RV family travel atlas that has been created by experts and captures detailed highlights of parks, discount locations, routes, and maps. The atlas features 176=pages and is written in English. You will find Trailer Life RV Road Atlas easy to understand and helpful for RVing.

This Trailer Life RV Road Atlas is perfect for those who wish to drive their RV or oversized vehicles. Therefore, if you love RV, then Trailer Life RV Road Atlas is the right directory that you need for exploration and adventure.

What is contained in this Trailer Life RV Road Atlas is everything you need to make your trip an enjoyable one. It features campgrounds directory and all locations for RV driving. There are also routes and everything to help you navigate the place without struggle.

• All routes for RV are well captured.
• Detailed and easy to read.
• Routes and campsites indicated well.
• Spiral bound with good looking cover.
• Includes parks and other destinations to visit.
• Clear and precise map with discount locations.
• Does not indicate where there are low bridges or overpasses.
• Relatively expensive.

Expert opinion: This RV atlas is written by experts and with listings of all campsites and discount locations. It also captures the best routes for RV driving and hence is a recommended guide for travel planning.

Rand McNally 2020 Road Atlas

This is the best USA road atlas with detailed features and information regarding the routes, highway and tracking information, and hence a great companion for professional RV drivers. It is a 208-page document written in English and is easy to read and understand.

Rand McNally 2020 Road Atlas is everything you need if you want to save money and resources. You can use it to plan your trip and it consists of information about restricted routes, mileage information, low clearance points, and weigh station locations.

Other Details

This is a durable atlas that comes with laminated pages to prevent it from liquid exposure and is a useful tool for drivers. The booklet also comes with easy-to-use charts, road construction and condition hotlines, regulations and hazardous materials, and numbers of provisional permit agencies just to mention a few of the details.

• Detailed and descriptive.
• Covers all the designated routes.
• Laminated pages to protect against fluids.
• Highlights all restricted routes and road constructions.
• Shows city-to-city mileage.
• Good for big vehicle drivers.
• Does not detail tertiary and secondary roads.

Expert opinion: Rand McNally 2020 Road Atlas is a great companion if you are a professional RV driver in the United States and needs some accurate information regarding mileage, road condition, and other important details.

How to Choose the Best Road Atlas for RV

Choosing the best road atlas would depend on a number of factors. Of course, we don’t all want to adventure in the same locality, or visit the same place. Therefore, when choosing your atlas, you need to check on the following:

The Place You Are Going to Visit

This is important since you can’t have a good plan without the necessary information of the place you want to visit. If you are visiting the United States, then I would recommend Rand McNally 2021 Road Atlas and National Geographic Maps Road Atlas since they are well-detailed with information regarding all the States. For different locations like Utah, you have Benchmark Maps Road Atlas . It details all the destinations, parks, and to do lists while in Utah and is a helpful plan guide for trips in the same locality.

Trust and Reviews

If most people are satisfied with the product, they would definitely give it positive reviews and good ratings. Rand McNally 2021 Road Atlas is a choice that you cannot dispute due to thousands of satisfied users. It is highly rated and the best-selling RV atlas on the market.

Updated Version

You will find that information that was published some years ago would have changed due to the changing conditions, especially of the roads, and places. Therefore, if you are to buy the best atlas, then you should look for an updated one like the National Geographic Maps Road Atlas and others that have been updated recently.

Final Thoughts

With an updated, detailed, reliable, and accurate atlas, you can rest assured to enjoy your RV adventure. Of course, the above atlases are there for you to choose one that fits the geographical location you are planning to visit, and captures all the destinations, routes, distances, and all other information that you want including the maps.

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Take Back Roads

Seeking authentic travel experiences, one back road at a time, great american road trips: the best back road by state.

America is home to countless back roads, side roads, and country roads… scenic routes , historic routes, and tourist routes… National Byways and Historic Highways …. and more road trip possibilities than any one person could complete in a lifetime.   Hosting Take Back Roads since 2013 has inspired me to explore a great deal of back roads on local, regional, and long distance road trips.  In that time, I’ve learned one major fact about exploring back roads:  the more of them that I experience, the deeper my appreciation becomes for just how many more there are to see!

Take me to the road trips!

This train of thought led me to develop the collaboration idea you see here.  Since it would be impossible to take every back road in America , I recruited help:  travel bloggers from all across the country.   I reached out with a simple request:  Please write about your favorite back road in the state of your choice.  What do you like about it, what is there to see and do, and what makes it your favorite?  I also requested one or two photos and the names and websites of any restaurants, shops, or local businesses they wanted to highlight (if applicable).

What should you pack for a road trip?

Excellent COVID-19 Protection Options to take with you:

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links.  This means that I receive a commission –  at no cost to you – if you purchase one of the products I’ve linked to on this page.

States are split between East and West of the Mississippi River, and then organized alphabetically.  There are links to navigate the post.  As you will see, while a couple states have two submissions and a few states have no submission yet, the vast majority have a single submission.

Feeling overwhelmed?  We can help plan your next road trip.

Click  here ..

Looking for a great playlist to listen to while ON your road trip?

Start here .

We are still missing THREE states:  Indiana, Missouri, and Rhode Island.  If you can provide us a back road in any of those states, please email me !

Our Second Installment in the Great American Road Trip Series can now be found HERE !

Without further ado…

The Best Back Road by State: East of the Mississippi

Skip to Eastern States by first letter:

Skip down to the Western States

AL-25 from Harpersville to Payne Lake

For a modifiable map, click here

State Route 25 from Harpersville, AL goes through the rural towns of Wilsonville and Columbiana. There is a” bed and breakfast” in Columbiana called the Columbiana Inn. The road continues to wind through beautiful farmland and vineyards. “Wine Trail” signs off SR-25 indicate the vineyard locations.  Heart of Dixie Railroad museum in Calera is a great place for those who love trains! Calera also has a colonial American village recreation, “American Village”. There are a few parks along SR- 25 where the Cahaba River can be accessed. One of them is Shoal Creek Park.  The town of Montevallo is historic and charming, and is home to the University of Montevallo .  Continuing to meander down SR-25 passes through the small town of Wilton.  You’ll soon find another significant historical site, Briarfield Iron Works State Park, which shows some of Alabama’s former iron production facilities. There is also a campground at this park.  The Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge is not far away, but down another back road. It is famous as a place to see and wade in the Cahaba River.  State Route 25 continues to meander through beautiful rural Alabama and ends near Centerville, a nostalgic small town.

Betsey Hallmark, Shutterstock

Down to Western States

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Connecticut

Ct-39 & us route 202 from the new york border to granby.

Ironically enough, this submission is my own, and it’s technically comprised of four different back roads:  CT-39 into Sherman, CT-37 and US Rt 7 into New Milford, and US 202 the rest of the way.  I took this trip in February of 2018 while on my way to visit friends in Granby.  Winter is not the ideal time of year for this drive.  However, the rolling and winding route was still breathtaking enough to cause me to stop several times along its 70 miles to take pictures.  Passing (and crossing) several beautiful lakes, two meandering rivers, and a handful of state parks, the scenic route also slices through the heart of traditional and historical New England farmland, villages, and towns.  Though I noticed several enticing restaurants and wineries, time constraints prevented me from stopping to eat and drink.

Scott Berney, Take Back Roads

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CT-169, Norwich-Worcester Turnpike

State Route 169 in Connecticut is nothing if not bucolic. You’ll feel like you should be traveling by horse-drawn cart through the rolling hills past munching cows, orchards, fields, 19-century mills and colonial villages. The second-longest scenic route in the state (after the also wonderful Merritt Parkway, Route 15) runs from Lisbon to Woodstock on the state border to Massachusetts and carries the federal designation of National Scenic Byway. Stop at roadside stands for apple cider and pumpkins, go antique-ing, or enjoy some fabulous examples of historic architectural styles (e.g. Federal style in Canterbury).

Olivia, Happy in the Hollow

Big Stone Beach Road

This 8 mile long back road will show you the best of Delaware’s wetlands, and take you to a hidden gem of a beach on the Delaware bayshore. The road winds through a rural area of central Delaware, but as you drive, you can see the landscape changing with every mile. The suburbs transition to forests, then the trees open up to reveal an impressive expanse of salt marsh before the road finally dead ends at its namesake, Big Stone Beach. The beach itself offers stunning views of the dune and marsh habitat, and at low tide, you can see reefs and tide pools created by sand building worms. This back road is one that many Delaware locals have never seen, but it’s one that you won’t want to miss!

Abby Shepard, Abby Shepard Photography & DE State Parks

Looking for more Delaware content?  Click here

Florida A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway

When you visit northeast Florida, my advice is to get off the interstate and take the back roads to explore. Specifically, the Florida A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway.

This portion of Florida A1A stretches 72 miles from Ponte Vedra Beach (south of Jacksonville) past St Augustine and down to Flagler Beach. Due to the location of Hwy A1A between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, the opportunities for fishing, birding, and beachcombing are abundant. In addition, there are historical sites along this stretch of road. Staying in St Augustine for a month allowed me to enjoy the beach life and learn about the history of the area,  in particular  the Castillo de San Marcos . The fort, constructed from the local coquina stone from 1672 to 1695, is well worth a visit.

Some of my best times in Florida were spent driving up and down the A1A highway visiting all the  beaches near St Augustine  including the coquina stone beach near Marineland.

Susan Moore, Solo Trips and Tips

Appalachian Foothills Parkway

My love for this beautifully scenic highway may be biased, since it starts less than 25 miles north of my house. From there it winds through the southernmost section of the Appalachian Mountains, twisting and turning alongside many of North Georgia’s major highlights. You can drive through the Chattahoochee National Forest and the Blue Ridge Mountains, hike to see picturesque Amicalola Falls, and take in the stunning views from atop Brasstown Bald. It’s especially gorgeous in the spring, when the Azaleas start to bloom, and when the leaves start to change colors in autumn. And since it’s only 60 miles long, it makes for an exceptional day trip from Atlanta.

Bret Love & Mary Gabbett, Green Global Travel

Keslinger Road to Whiskey Acres, Dekalb IL

If you’re lucky and know where to turn , you can find yourself on Keslinger Road in DeKalb, Illinois, about 60 miles west of Chicago. Down a pin-straight road and nestled among corn fields, you’ll find Whiskey Acres , the estate distillery run by 5th generation farmers highlighted in the video above. Sure, there are back roads with rolling hills or more interesting vistas, but the warmth and sincerity of the family at Whiskey Acres is what keeps me going back. I don’t know another spot where I can visit 2-3 times a year and get hugs and cheers as I walk in the tasting room. A back road and a glass of whiskey – it doesn’t get better!

Savithri Grant, A Whiskey Mama

KY Route 80, from Watergap to Arlington

Editor’s Note – for this map to work properly, when you open it,  you might need to go to “Options” and click “Avoid Highways” – then it will follow KY-80 the whole way

The longest state route in the Blue Grass State, Route 80, clocks in at 425 miles. It sticks in the memory from our 21 states we’ve road-tripped across thus far.  Route 80 offers so much to see. Near Somerset is Lake Cumberland , one of the largest man-made lakes in the world at 101 miles long. The Mammoth Cave National Park , with the world’s longest known cave system (400 miles), is a great excursion near Bowling Green.

Our most precious memory of this trip, though, is stopping to admire beautiful Belgian draught horses in the town of Fancy Farm, just outside Mayfield. The owner, Stephanie, came out to say ‘hello’ and told us all about her horses and life in Fancy Farm. It proved once again, it’s always people who make the place.

Darrin Henry, What the Saints Did Next

Looking for more Kentucky content?  Click here

Old Canada Road Scenic Byway

Finding the best back road in Maine is a bit tricky—mostly because there are hardly any  actual interstates  in Maine, and back roads are as plentiful as lobster. While coastal road trips make most “best of” lists, I prefer the wild and remote roads of western Maine.

The Old Canada Road Scenic Byway is a 60 mile section of Route 201 stretching from the Canadian border to Solon, Maine. Despite its recognition as one of the most scenic roads in the country, you won’t find the kind of bumper-to-bumper traffic that descends upon the Maine coast in the summer—unless, of course, everyone is stopping for a moose.

In addition to reading tales of Benedict Arnold and lumber barons on historic markers, there are plenty of scenic rest areas as you travel along the Kennebec River. Plus a few quirky stops, like a retaining wall covered in birdhouses and the surprising interior of a historic meeting house.

Naomi Figueroa, Roaming the Americas

Blue Crab Scenic Byway

You can take I-95 to get from one city in  Maryland  to another, but where’s the fun in doing that?  If you are coming from Princess Anne, MD and want to go to Ocean City, one good option is to make your way to the Blue Crab Scenic Byway.

If you love water scenery, Blue Crab Scenic Byway is for you.  Water lovers will be delighted on this trip with so many places to access both the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. One can stop for lunch in the Crab Capital of the World (i.e. Crisfield), then take the ferry from Crisfield to the bay on Smith Island.

Don’t forget the famous MD Blue Crabs. Stop by Red Roost in Quantico, MD for some eastern shore eating. It’s open seasonally for all you can eat crabs (yum!), shrimp, fried chicken, and snow crabs. This restaurant also serves BBQ, steaks, and draft beer. If you are into crabs and the good old beer and BBQ, this is the spot for you.

Once you are in Ocean City, make sure to take photos of and on the boardwalk. Also, don’t forget to treat yourselves by going for the amusement rides found in Ocean City.

Allan Liwanag, The Practical Saver

Looking for more Maryland content?  Click here

Massachusetts

Battle road scenic byway.

The Battle Road Scenic Byway pairs year-round beautiful scenery with a big dose of history. Running parallel to route 2A through Arlington, Lexington, Lincoln and Concord for 14 miles, it roughly follows the path of the British on April 19, 1775 at the start of the American Revolutionary War. You can stop at many culturally and historically important sites, such as the Minute Man National Historical Park, art museums, abolitionist sites, and the homes of Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne,  and Henry David Thoreau.

M-22, Lake Michigan Circle Tour

Notable as one of the most scenic Pure Michigan Byways, M-22 is located in the “pinkie finger” of Michigan’s distinctive mitten. Originating in Traverse City and following the Lake Michigan shoreline in Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee Counties, M-22 is a two-lane, hilly highway that twists and turns through historic villages and towns.  It also crosses the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the reservation of the Grand Traverse Band of Chippewa and Ottawa Indians in Peshawbestown. The road dates back to the original trunkline system established in Michigan in 1919, but most likely follows settler and indigenous pathways that are centuries older.

As part of the Lake Michigan Circle Tour, the road has developed a cult-like status among regional visitors and residents.  It was made even more popular when designated “best scenic autumn drive” in the nation by USAToday in 2015.  M-22 sign and marker theft has become a problem for the Michigan Department of Transportation, which has to replace more than 30 signs a year.

Fun things to do along your drive: plan a stop along Sleeping Bear Dunes’ 35 mile stretch of coastline, which won Good Morning America’s “most beautiful place in America” designation in 2011. Explore the Port Oneida Rural Historic District, consisting of 16 government protected farms settled by Europeans in the 19th century, and the historic village of Glen Haven, a lumber company town dating from 1865. Stop in picturesque Leland, on the site of one of the oldest Ottawa Native American villages, where a natural fish ladder made for good angling. Leland’s Fishtown historic area is great for shopping and lunching. Check out the historic Northport Lighthouse and the charming village of Sutt

ons Bay on your way back around to Traverse City. Along the way, stop in one of the numerous vineyards for a taste of local wine, or indulge in preserves and pies made with the area’s famous sweet cherry crop.

Betsy Wuebker, PassingThru

Mississippi

Natchez trace, nashville tn to natchez historical park ms.

The Natchez Trace isn’t your average scenic route:  because of its natural beauty and historic value, it’s run by the National Park Service! The Natchez Trace is a meandering parkway that runs just over 400 miles from  Natchez, Mississippi  to Nashville, Tennessee. Many of the people who complete the journey do so on bicycles or motorcycles, but, of course, it’s a great drive for motorists as well.

If you enjoy hiking, the Natchez Trace offers sixty-five miles of scenic trails, some that can be used for horseback riding. Autumn is a great season to drive The Trace as the fall colors are present in all their glory.

Be sure to visit the  National Park Service website  for updated information on The Trace, including maps, accessibility, and history. From  abandoned towns  and  ruins  to Native American sites, scenic trails to Confederate gravesites, the Natchez Trace is an enjoyable, educational road trip through the state of Mississippi.

Jennifer Campbell, Just Chasing Rabbits

New Hampshire

Kancamagus highway, nh route 112, conway to lincoln.

One of New Hampshire’s best-loved back roads, the 36-mile Kancamagus Highway cuts through a mountainous region of the White Mountain National Forest in northern New Hampshire. Locals love it when you pronounce this famous scenic byway correctly, so the first thing you should know is that it’s “Kank-ah-mah-gus”. The road runs west to east from Lincoln to Conway, providing spectacular views of the surrounding White Mountains.

Driving the Kancamagus Highway is a bit like stepping back in time. There are no stores, gas stations, or lodging, but you will find six National Forest Service campgrounds, ranging in price from $20 to $25 per night. Fall is a beautiful time to drive the Kanc, as it is affectionately known. The winding road has been named one of the top fall foliage drives in America many times over.

Hiking trails, scenic picnic areas, waterfalls, and covered bridges are among the top attractions, with many scenic pull-offs that require you to decide at a moment’s notice if you want to explore further. Our favorite destinations from our recent trip were the Lincoln Woods Trail , the Hancock Overlook , Sabaday Falls , Rocky Gorge Scenic Area , and Albany Covered Bridge . One of the beautiful things about the Kancamagus Highway is that there’s always something new to discover.

Tara Schatz, Back Road Ramblers

US Route 46, Delaware Water Gap to Fort Lee

(Editor’s note:  As is somewhat common, US-46 tracks alongside I-80 for much of the road trip, so I made the map as close to the route described as possible… but it’s not perfect)

New Jersey packs a lot into a small package.  Truthfully, you can create many interesting one to two-hour road trips there.  For example, you can follow the Delaware River on the west side of the state, or follow the coast line on the east side of the state.  You can also explore a plethora of curious sites on the outskirts of Philadelphia or New York City.  But if you only have the opportunity to take one New Jersey road trip, this is my recommendation.  If you were to stay on Route 46 the entire time and made no stops the entire journey would only take a little over an hour… but where’s the fun in that?

Start at the Delaware water gap and find Route 46, “the shortest signed, non-spur U.S. Highway in the country.”  Head east to Morristown and Jockey Hollow , where you can visit Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War.  While on Route 46 you’ll pass through a handful of charming New Jersey towns — the kind of places most outsiders assume don’t exist in the nation’s most densely populated state.

Stop in Paterson and check out the Great Falls to see a breathtaking 75 foot water fall that passes more water by volume (2 billion gallons a day!) than any other falls in the eastern United States (with the exception of Niagara).  Before you leave the area, be sure to check out the ruins of Hinchliffe Stadium , a place the New York Black Yankees once called home.  When back on the road, head over to Weehawken for spectacular views of the New York skyline, and to walk the hallowed ground where Alexander Hamilton once fought Aaron Burr in a duel.  End your day by heading back to Route 46 and Fort Lee, NJ, where you can stop by Hiram’s for one of the best hot dogs in the country.  Not only will you have traversed Route 46 in its entirety, but you’ll have a full belly, great memories, and a new appreciation for New Jersey, one of the smallest and most geographically diverse states in our union!

Tim Tobitsch, Franktuary and 50 Franks

NY Route 73, Adirondack Mountains

Some of the best back roads in New York are upstate in the Adirondack Mountains. I’ve gotten to drive quite a few while living up here, but one of my personal favorites is New York State Route 73. NY-73 is less than 30 miles long, but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in views. The road is nestled in among some of the Adirondacks’ largest and most popular mountains, and along streams through charming little towns. The road ends in Lake Placid, home of the 1980 Winter Olympics. While you’re passing through, you can also stop for skiing in the winter, or hike an Adirondack High Peak.

Danielle, Wanderlust While Working

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North Carolina

Us route 301.

(Editor’s note:  As with Kentucky, you will likely have to click on “Avoid Highways” to ensure that this route follows US-301 instead of I-95)

Running parallel to Interstate 95, choose  HWY 301  to discover North Carolina. This historic route linked tobacco and cotton farms connecting small towns and rural communities. Today, tobacco farms have given way to modernization, but the quaint charm remains. Travel HWY 301 to discover southern cuisine like pulled pork and fried chicken. Grab a fresh squeezed orangeade at the local pharmacy counter. Take a break in Wilson to see Vollis Simpson’s famous whirligigs, or stretch your legs at the botanical gardens in Fayetteville. Wherever you go on HWY 301, discover authentic North Carolina: great food, unique shops and historic places.

Karen Dawkins, Family Travels on a Budget

(Editor’s Note:  I was very tempted to write another submission for North Carolina about my favorite road in the state, US Route 21.  However, I’ve written a full blog about our experience, both heading South , and also about heading back North .  You can read more there!)

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Hocking Hills Scenic Byway – State Route 374

State Route 374 in southeastern  Ohio  is also known as the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway as it connects all six of the Hocking Hills State Park sites: Cantwell Cliffs, Rock House, Conkle’s Hollow, Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls and Ash Cave. The byway begins near Rockbridge at the intersection of US 33 and Route 374 and continues just over 26 miles to Ash Cave. While you can easily enjoy the route in a day from the comfort of your vehicle, the route is best explored when you allow time to explore the parks, hiking trails and remarkable scenery that comprise this unique destination. The route provides an opportunity for visitors to appreciate and enjoy the outdoors year-round. You’ll find plenty of lodging options from campgrounds to luxurious cabins along the route with places to grab a bite to eat.

Tonya Prater, Travel Inspired Living

Pennsylvania

Pa route 32, between new hope & kintersville.

I’ve driven thousands of miles through Pennsylvania, but there’s no drive better in the state than PA Route 32 between New Hope and Kintersville. This road runs along the Delaware River on the eastern edge of the state and features fantastic views of the water. Opposite the river, steep cliffs give rise to many beautiful waterfalls (if you visit during times of high water).

Along the road are fantastic highlights like Ringing Rocks County Park , Delaware Canal State Park , and the charming town of New Hope . You’ll also be driving past homes, barns, covered bridges, and other structures that are centuries old.

This combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and a curvy road make this my favorite drive in Pennsylvania.

Jim Cheney, UncoveringPA and Tripologist

(Editor’s Note:  the charming town of Lumberville is also on this route, which plays home to the absolutely marvelous  1740 House.   Members of my family have stayed there for romantic getaways or relaxing long weekends since it first opened in the late 1960’s.  If you explore this area, I  highly recommend you stay here.  Note – no kids under 14 are allowed!)

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South Carolina

Sc-174, edisto island.

Plying the back roads — the back, back roads – of South Carolina inevitably will present you with a gift basket of surprises. Looming magnolia trees and Spanish moss. Tiny, rural communities populated with folks who more than likely will be happy to spend the afternoon beguiling you with the stories of their lives. Makeshift farm stands and  BBQ pits that you can sniff out a mile away. Ramshackle houses and dilapidated plantations evoking chapters from another world.

One day I was riding along old State Road 174 north of Edisto Island and happened upon the Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge. This sprawling natural gem encompasses more than 12,000 acres. But the day I discovered it, I met more alligators than people. A lovely antebellum former rice plantation sits on the property. Besides the alligators, I saw wood storks, egrets and ibises. Lazy streams and ancient paths wind through the refuge. And I had it all to myself.

Louis Berney, Freelance Journalist for the Washington Post  and beat writer for the  Baltimore Orioles

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The Snake – US Route 421

Many people are most familiar with northeast Tennessee for its Smoky Mountains , but if you are looking for a challenging and beautiful Tennessee scenic drive, travel northeast of the Smokies to Hwy 421.  This 112 mile Tennessee highway is a very popular stretch of mountain highway among sports car enthusiasts and motorcyclists. Within this 112 mile highway lies a 37 mile section known as “The Snake” and for good reason.  This section of highway “snakes” its way through Sullivan and Johnson County, TN taking motorists up the mountain through 489 curves providing one of the most beautiful and thrilling scenic routes in northeast Tennessee. The “snake” isn’t for the weak of stomach, however, but it is fantastic for those who enjoy riding the switchbacks over the mountains while surrounded by beautiful countryside.   

Amanda, VeraVise Outdoor Living

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VT Route 100, between Wilmington & Newport

Vermont is known for its mountainous back roads, incredible recreation opportunities, and charming New England villages. There are endless opportunities for road-tripping in Vermont, but route 100, which runs right through the center of the state, is probably the most iconic stretch of pavement. At 216.6 miles long, it is Vermont’s longest state highway, and it’s also one of the most beautiful. If you’re are looking for a quintessential Vermont road trip, then route 100 is the perfect place to start. It starts in the southern town of Wilmington and winds its way north through the Green Mountain National Forest to the Canadian border. Heading north, the road passes pristine mountain lakes, cascading waterfalls, quiet campgrounds, and secret swimming holes. This awesome Vermont road trip is best enjoyed in the summer or fall so you can take full advantage of the outdoor adventures available in the mountains.

For an in-depth look at things to do in Vermont, click here

Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park

Skyline Drive is a beautiful Virginia byway that goes straight through Shenandoah National Park and the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s especially vibrant – and popular! – in the fall, when the leaves reach their peak colors. It’s not exactly a well-kept secret, but if you’re able to hit the road early enough to catch a misty sunrise, you might be able to beat some of the crowds and enjoy a colorful drive with slightly fewer cars. At just over 100 miles long, it makes for a great half-day drive. This DC local thinks it’s a must see!

Mary Beth, from  MB Sees

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Historic US Route 11, Winchester to Wytheville

(Editor’s note: As is the case with many of the older US Routes (the white shield with a black border ), Route 11 runs parallel to I-81, so mapping out the actual trip described is now essentially impossible.  Google maps eliminated the feature to allow the embedding of full route adjustments, so when you open the map, choose “Avoid Highways.”)

Small towns dot historic Route 11 as it meanders north to south through the Shenandoah Valley in  Virginia . The historic road evolved from Native American warrior path to a migration route known as the Great Wagon Road, before it became the Valley Turnpike in 1834. Wineries, apple orchards, farm stands, and local restaurants offer great places to relax and refresh along the route.

Begin your Route 11 road trip with a visit to the historic Winchester walking district, and a delicious meal at  Sweet Nola’s . As you head south, stop at  Route 11 Chips  to    sample the popular flavored chips and watch them being made. Further south, stop at Natural Bridge State Park, a 500-year-old rock formation that towers over a stream. Head into Lexington for a delicious fried chicken dinner at the  Southern Inn . Finish your trip with a stay at the historic  Hotel Roanoke  where you can sample the city’s many museums and great restaurants like  Local Roots  in the funky Grandin neighborhood. Route 11 offers a fabulous mix of American history, nature, and small town fun.

Julie McCool, Fun in Fairfax VA

West Virginia

Us routes 19 & 250, morgantown to monongahela national forest.

West Virginia’s motto is “Wild and Wonderful,” and truer words may never have been spoken about the state.  Much of the state is completely undeveloped wilderness, which makes it a prime destination for excellent road trips – especially on a motorcycle.  Countless back roads zig-zag up and down the mountains and meander through the dense forest lands, making it tough to pick just one – so I didn’t!  And I enlisted a friend who just posted a rather unique video about his somewhat unusual traveling motivation – hot dogs!

Tim Tobitsch, owner of Franktuary  here in Pittsburgh, described his destination in Clarksburg as “a town with some interesting history.  Native Americans are known to have inhabited it since at least 1000 A.D.  It played a significant role in the Civil War – and was the birthplace of Stonewall Jackson.  In the first half of the 20th Century one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of glass called it home.”  Tim’s review of his experience at The Ritzy Lunch are in the YouTube video below.

Branching further south and east of US Route 19, US-250 runs a looping route to and through the Monongahela National Forest towards the Virginia border.  A historic spur of the iconic cross-country route US-50, US-250 cuts diagonally across West Virginia, northwest to southeast.  Though the route cuts through several old coal mining towns with adorable Main Street style shopping districts, the real highlight is the sections between towns:  cutting across farmlands, forests, and up sizeable ancient mountains.

This is a culinary wilderness adventure that’s not to be missed!

Scott Berney, Take Back Roads , and Tim Tobitsch, TheSausageSage

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WI Route 42, Egg Harbor to Gill’s Rock

Out of all of the scenic drives along Lake Michigan in  Wisconsin , highway 42 in Door County is arguably the most beautiful. The stretch of the highway from Egg Harbor up to Gills Rock on the northern tip of the peninsula is loaded with breathtaking coastline, wonderful small towns with plentiful shopping, cherry orchards, and vineyards. During the wintertime, Green Bay becomes an ice fisherman’s paradise and the trails of Peninsula State park are alive with visitors snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

However, this stretch along highway 42 in Door County is arguably at its most beautiful in the fall, when the leaves are changing colors.  With the state forests full of color and beautiful Lake Michigan as a backdrop, it isn’t hard to see why people flock to Door County in the fall to enjoy the changing of the seasons.

Josh Hewitt, Wanderlust Travel & Photography

The Best Back Road by State: West of the Mississippi

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Alaska Route 1, Homer to Anchorage to Tok

Anyone who hightails it up to  Alaska  will be driving at some time, probably most times, on  Alaska  Route 1. Almost 600 miles long, it’s the main route from anywhere to Anchorage, the largest city. Most drives are on the Seward and Sterling highways, because from Anchorage to Homer, fisherman come in droves hoping to catch the king of fish, salmon. The road is not that wide, but the scenery is stunning as you follow along Turnagain Arm, through the Kenai forest from Seward to Soldotna, then along the Cook Inlet to Homer. Along the way you will see all kinds of wildlife from an abundance of birds to the huge  Alaskan  moose.

Corinne Vail, The Roving Vails

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Mount Magazine Scenic Byway, Ozark to Havana

The northwestern corner of Arkansas is home to some big players in the arena of natural beauty, including the Ouachita National Forest and the Ozark National Forest.  But it is the region in between these two that endeared itself to me in its humble beauty. Between these two forests traverses my favorite Arkansas back road, the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway.

Mount Magazine Scenic Byway, also known as Highway 309, runs roughly north to south from Ozark to Havana.  Along its span, this road winds through a collection of quintessential small towns and lazy farmlands. The highlight of this back road, however, has to be its passage through Mount Magazine State Park, home of the highest point in Arkansas.  Approaching the park, visitors will find themselves steadily increasing in elevation, lending to some stunning roadside views over the expanses below.

Other notable stops along the Byway include Cove Lake Recreation Area, a great option for hiking, sightseeing, water sports, or a quick picnic!  The best place to stop and eat along the route is Cove Creek Supply, a local spot known for their awesome burgers and other classic American foods.

Kristen Czudak, Yonderlust Ramblings

AZ-67 & US-89, North Rim of the Grand Canyon to Flagstaff

Though only about 50 miles as the crow flies, the drive from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to Flagstaff (or vice versa) requires over 200 miles and nearly four hours…. but what a breathtaking drive it is!   I had a difficult time choosing between this drive and AZ Route 64, which runs parallel to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, but the diversity of the scenery and the sweeping panoramas along this drive helped it to win out.

Starting in the lush woodlands and grassy plateaus of the North Rim section of the park, the first leg of the road trip features a nice assortment of green landscapes, and if you’re lucky, a herd of bison.  Shortly after making the right onto US-89A, however, the surroundings begin to change rapidly as you drop in altitude down to the desert floor.  Make sure to stop and walk across the Navajo Bridge at Marble Canyon for some pretty breathtaking views.  The 125 miles from Marble Canyon to Flagstaff crosses a broad expanse of the starkly beautiful Arizona desert with very few pitstops – so make sure you have a full tank of gas!

Scott, Take Back Roads

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CA Route 12, Sebastopol to San Andreas

California’s State Route 12 (known as Highway 12 by the locals) is a 140 mile road trip that runs east-west from Sebastopol (in Sonoma County) to San Andreas (in Calaveras County). The most beautiful part of the highway is arguably the stretch between Santa Rosa (near the Melita Road Intersection) through Sonoma, where the highway is lined with stunning vineyards and redwood trees. During your drive you will pass by numerous wineries with varying tasting room hours. Ledson Winery in Kenwood, a personal favorite, is known as Sonoma County’s Wine Castle.  Its gothic architecture and spires are stunning against Sonoma Valley’s mountain backdrop. Originally built as a private residence, it catches the attention of all drivers and deserves a visit.

(Editor’s Note:  Leah will be submitting photos for this route soon.  In the interim, if you’re a follower of my blog, you know that I have a TON of California photos to peruse….)

Leah, An Adventure is Calling

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Trail Ridge Road, US-34, Grand Lake to Estes NP

(Editor’s note – since Trail Ridge Road is closed in winter, Google Maps won’t allow me to create a map of the road trip described below.  Instead, I’m including a map of a location on the route so you can see where it is, and I will be updating the post with a proper map this summer!)

A highway to the sky, Trail Ridge Road is the 48 mile portion of U.S. 34 between Estes Park and Grand Lake,  Colorado . To me, this is one of the most beautiful stretches of road and mountains you will ever see.

In just a few minutes you travel up from Estes Park and the temperature drops 20-30 degrees. The awesome tree-covered landscape changes to tundra as you climb higher and higher. At the top point, 12,183 feet in elevation, the wind whips and even in summer cars drive by walls of snow.

Not only are there views of majestic mountains, valleys, and snakelike rivers, but you’ll also find a variety of wildlife and plants. You will see the pine trees, the flowers and grass of the tundra, and so much more I can’t begin to identify. Personally, when traveling the road I’ve seen moose, elk, deer, coyotes, bighorn sheep, marmots, chipmunks, and all sorts of birds.

If you’re nearby, make a day trip out of it. Take your time and get out of the car to enjoy the scenic views or take one of the short hikes. The Alpine Visitors Center is almost at the top on the Grand Lake side and worth a stop if nothing else but for the photo op.

One of my favorite places on earth… don’t miss Trail Ridge Road.

Lauren Gonikishvili, Explorer Momma

Mamalahoa Kona Heritage Corridor, Hawaii Route 180

If you’re looking for a way around the Kona traffic, your best bet is Mamalahoa Kona Heritage Corridor. This 20 mile scenic byway is a section of Hawaii Route 180 that passes through the outskirts of the little town of Holualoa, which is known for its coffee and art.

In the old days, this route was part of a footpath encircling the Island of Hawaii. Now, it’s a narrow, two lane road that curves along the slope of Hualalai Mountain. The 30 mph ride takes you through old Hawaii with views of the ocean, beautiful foliage, historic architecture, cemeteries, and coffee farms.

Despite its reputation as an historic town, Holualoa is thriving with locals and tourists alike. Make sure you stop in town on the drive for a cup of Kona coffee, a bite to eat, and a chat with the friendly Holualoa School kids at recess.  

Rachel Bergstrand, Roadtrips & Kittens

Mountains, Valleys, and raging rivers:  Horseshoe Bend to Sun Valley

For a state that’s known for potatoes, Idaho is actually home to thousands and thousands of acres of jaw-dropping mountain peaks and rugged high elevation forests, densely packed with evergreen trees.  Raging river rapids carve deep valleys between these towering mounds of granite, and some poor DOT engineers had to figure out ways to squeeze useable roads in there somewhere.

It’s not all narrow rugged wilderness, but even the more refined parts of this drive are absolutely beautiful.  I had a really hard time deciding which part of this drive to highlight for this write up… so I went with all of it.  Starting and ending in two entirely different outdoor recreation towns – Horseshoe Bend and Ketchum , respectively – this route will weave and twist you along valleys of varying widths, running parallel with the Payette River all the way up to its headwaters about 15 miles east of Lowman.  It starts and ends in broad, sweeping valleys surrounding by rolling mountain peaks, bookending a narrow valley winding between steep-walled mountains.

There are more vista points to stop and soak it all in than I could even begin to highlight… but if you take it slowly and give yourself plenty of time to absorb the natural scenery surrounding you, you’re going to fall head over heels in love with Idaho, just like I did.

Loess Hills National Scenic Byway

(Google Maps occasionally makes building these backroad maps for you into a challenging exercise. When the route in question runs near a major interstate, it’s next to impossible to get the correct backroads route to display.  If you want to see the full looping route for the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway in Iowa, please click here .)

In a state that’s perhaps best known for the intersection of Interstate Highways, it’s fun to explore some of North America’s earliest crosscountry trails.   Few people consider the beauty of western Iowa, where the layers of hills roll right out of a Grant Wood painting away toward the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River.  

Along Iowa’s western border, travelers can explore the origins of several historic byways. The Lewis and Clark Monument , overlooking the Missouri River and Omaha, marks the occasion of the explorers’ 1804 meetings on these bluffs with local Indian tribes.

The Western Historic Trails Center in Council Bluffs describes the paths of the Oregon and California Trails, and tells the story of the Mormon encampments here along the Missouri when a particularly bad winter halted their western progress. The Union Pacific Railroad Museum offers exhibits about the transcontinental railway whose eastern terminus was established here by President Lincoln based on his visit in 1859.

To carve your own route through history, drive north from Hamburg to Council Bluffs along Loess Hills National Scenic Byway  .  Then head to Hitchcock Nature Center . Here the hills contain rare geological formations, remnants of pristine prairie, and opportunities for low-impact and highly scenic recreation.  From there, continue to follow the Loess Hills Scenic Byway northwest, exploring as many of the various points of interest along the way as you desire!

By Kristin Henning, TravelPast50.com

(images belong to Loess Hills Alliance )

US Route 66, the “Mother Road,” Galena to the Oklahoma Border

“Taking the back roads” is more than just a phrase in Kansas. Here, it is a way to connect with the land. Why take the interstate when you could be rolling down a two-lane highway, cruising along a scenic route, or stirring up dust along an old dirt road?

Route 66 is a prime example of a great alternate route. Located in the southeast corner of the state, it is the smallest section of the Mother Road at a mere ten miles long. Don’t let that sway you from investigating, since it is filled with some unique sights along the way. Check it out once, and you’ll fall in love with back road travel.

Jeff Bryant, Our Changing Lives

LA State Route 31, Opelousas to New Iberia

LA-31 is a 54 mile north-south state highway in the Louisiana parishes of Iberia, St Landry, and St Martin. From LA-182 in Opelousas, Hwy-31 winds along the Bayou Teche, south to New Iberia.

During my multi-year road trip around the USA I’ve visited Louisiana four times. And each time I enjoy exploring another slice of Cajun Country.  Starting out in Opelousas, take a moment to stop in  Hebert’s Boudin and Cracklins  and grab some road trip snacks. As the route winds along the Bayou Teche, you may want to pay tribute by taking a moment to visit  Bayou Teche Brewing  in St Arnaudville.

Continuing south to Breaux Bridge you can do a  swamp tour  or try kayaking with alligators at Lake Martin.  In St Martinville be sure to  visit the Evangeline Oak , named for the heroine in Longfellow’s epic poem, Evangeline. If you have more time you can also visit the Longfellow Evangeline Historic State Site.

Finishing up the road trip in New Iberia, you can grab a bite to eat at Victor’s Cafeteria or satisfy your sweet tooth at Meche’s Donuts .

Susan Moore, Solo Trips & Tips

MN Route 61, Duluth to Grand Portage State Park

Spectacular scenery and more along Minnesota’s North Shore

Minnesota has a lot of great road trips, but  Highway 61 along the North Shore of Lake Superior  should be on every traveler’s list. Start in tourist-friendly Duluth, but don’t stay too long – Minnesota’s best scenic drive begins once you leave town. Follow the shore of Lake Superior north to the Canadian border for a 150 miles of shimmering water, rocky beaches, towering cliffs, rushing waterfalls, forested hills, lighthouses, art galleries, historic sites, and fresh local food. Spring and summer bring wildflowers. Fall adds brilliantly colored leaves. Give yourself a couple days to do it all.

One of the best ways to explore Minnesota’s back roads and enjoy Minnesota at its very best is in an RV.  Don’t have an RV?  Why not rent one through RV Rental Minnesota – and spend a week or two affordably experiencing everything Minnesota has to offer!

Cindy Carlsson, Exploration Vacation

US Route 2, Idaho border to North Dakota border

Most people crossing  Montana  by car will take a combination of I-90 and I-94.  An alternative is to take a meandering road trip on US Route 2 across the northern part of the state.  US-2 goes from the hills near Idaho, across the Continental Divide near Glacier National Park, and finally across the high plains as you go from west to east.    This mostly 2-lane highway will take you through many little villages – the largest city along this route has only a bit over 23,000 people.    Although the cities along this route aren’t known for their tourist activities, there are some interesting and quirky sites to see.  Favorites in the western half of the state include the  Montana  Vortex and Glacier National Park.  Central  Montana  includes the underground city in Havre.  Eastern  Montana  has the Glasgow metal animals and the Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs.

Lisa, TheHotFlashPacker

Sandhills Scenic Byway, Grand Island to Hemingford

(Ed:  I hope that Stephen King fans will appreciate my selection of endpoint for this road trip)

There is a reason that the 5 hour scenic drive on the Sandhills Scenic Byway in  Nebraska  (yes,  Nebraska !) is one of the top 10 scenic drives in the US.  You’ll go over rolling hills, through a national forest, can see the famous  Sandhill Crane Migration , drive over one of the world’s largest aquifers and see plenty of wildlife along the way.  You’ll feel a world away from all your stresses and marvel at the pure wilderness and seemingly untouched nature.

So, next time you are doing a cross-country road trip, instead of flying through the state of  Nebraska  on I-80 and just assuming that  Nebraska  is only boring, flat, and cornfields, get off the beaten path a little and see what the locals see and love about our state!

Leanna Brown, Well-Traveled Nebraskan

NV Route 375, Extraterrestrial Highway

I try to travel the backroads as much as possible: the traffic is lighter, the pace is slower, the scenery is better, and the food is real. With all the roads that I have driven, one stands out for me: Nevada 375. It’s only 98 miles long, running between NV-318 and U.S. 6 and runs through some of the most starkly beautiful terrain that this Ontario girl has ever seen. The beauty of the land cannot be denied but that is not the only reason people drive this road. You see, NV-375 is also known as the Extraterrestrial Highway because it is the closest road to the legendary (yet supposedly non-existent) Area 51. There is no gas station in Rachel, so make sure you fuel up before you turn onto the highway. It is marked with road signs so there’s no doubt what road you’re travelling. We didn’t see any lights in the sky, but it was such a peaceful place, we didn’t mind.

Kristal, Adventure Dawgs

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Billy the Kid Scenic Byway

Explore America’s past on this Byway! It is fascinating! When you take the 84-mile drive through Lincoln County, New Mexico, you see the old American West and historic footsteps. Just think, the likes of Billy the Kid, Pat Garrett, the Mescalero Apache nation, Kit Carson, “Black Jack” Pershing, the Buffalo Soldiers, and “Smokey Bear”all walked here. This backroads trip follows the million-acre Lincoln National Forest. You’ll see plains as well as pine forests. Drive up the 12,000 elevation of the Sierra Blanca mountains and visit  Fort Stanton   on the plains.

Key Attractions on the Billy the Kid Scenic Byway include:

• Billy the Kid Visitor Center (575-378-5318)
• Ruidoso River and Sierra Blanca Mountains
• Coe Ranch in Hondo, NM, where Billy the Kid was employed during the Lincoln County War
• Fort Stanton Reservation which has historic sites that were home to Native American battles, the Buffalo Soldiers, 9th Calvary, WWII, US Marine Hospital, Kit Carson, and General “Black Jack” Pershing
• Ruidoso Downs Race Track (1461 Hiway-70 E)
• Smoky Bear Museum
• San Patricio

For additional information about the sites listed above, please visit Barb’s blog post for more details!

Barbara Bradley, The Traveling Seniors

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North Dakota

Enchanted highway.

Exit 74 off of I-94 takes you to the 30+ mile “Enchanted Highway” that leads from the interstate to the town of Regent, North  Dakota .  The Enchanted Highway was built to encourage tourism to this farming community.  The Enchanted Highway features the world’s largest scrap metal sculptures.  The sculptures feature creatures that can be found in the plains of North  Dakota , including geese, deer, pheasants, fish, and grasshoppers.  There’s even a “Tin Family” that consists of a father, mother, and son in the shape of giant tin cans.   Watch the roads for actual wildlife (antelope, deer, and pheasants) and make sure you stop for ice cream in Regent if the Enchanted Highway gift shop is open.  If roadside kitsch is your thing, make sure to check out this short road trip!

McKenzie River Highway, OR Route 126

The McKenzie River Highway in Central  Oregon  is not only a beautiful journey, but also a treasure trove of stops along the way. The two-lane highway acts as the road from Bend to Eugene,  Oregon  — and is also known as Highway 126.  Book yourself a cheap flight into Portland, book yourself a motorhome from RV Rental Portland , and hit the open road!

The McKenzie River Highway runs into the Pacific Crest Trail (a 2,650-mile hiking trail that runs from Southern California to Northern Washington), and some stops along the highway include Sahalie Falls, Koosah Falls, and the Tamolitch Blue Pool.

Tamolitch Blue Pool is an easy 1.5-mile hike in from the McKenzie River Highway, which has you walking along the McKenzie River — and with plenty of beautiful sites along the way. Or you can take in a longer hike, which starts at Sahalie Falls.

Jaclyn Brandt, Your Travel Spark

South Dakota

Iron mountain road, us route 16a, black hills national forest & custer state park.

Iron Mountain Road, also known as US-16A, is a twisting, turning road in the Black Hills of South Dakota . The road ranks amongst America’s Top Ten scenic byways, and driving the Iron Mountain Road is a life-changing experience.

This 17-mile long road, with its continuously looping curves, three pigtail bridges , and three narrow granite tunnels, is considered to be an engineering marvel. The road passes through the Black Hills National Forest and its breathtaking scenery. The many curves force motorists to slow down and take in the abundant wildlife sightings including deer, coyotes, and chipmunks. The highlight of the road is the view of Mount Rushmore in the distance through the third granite tunnel.

Ketki Sharangpani, Dotted Globe

The River Road, FM-170 and FM-118 to Big Bend National Park

The best back road in  Texas  is without a doubt FM 170, commonly dubbed “The River Road.” This stretch of state highway cuts through Big Bend Ranch State Park in West  Texas and hugs the Rio Grande (hence the name). Every local we talked to insisted  this  is the most beautiful drive in  Texas , and I’m inclined to believe them. If you’re a hiker, there are plenty of impressive desert hikes in the State Park all along the highway. There are no shops or gas stations here so stock up before you set out. And don’t forget your camera, it’s seriously beautiful.

Erin Mushaway, Sol Salute

UT Route 12

Highway 12 in  Utah  is one of the most scenic highways in America. It was designated an ‘All American Road’ in 2002. The route is 122 miles long and has a National Parks at each end, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef .  Along this stretch of road there are state parks, landmarks, hiking trails and pulloffs to allow you to enjoy the unique landscape.  The drive along the scenic byway is memorable with sections of the road going through two red rock arches, over a narrow stretch atop slickrock called the Hogback with a steep dropoff to the canyons below on either side, and through one of the world’s highest alpine forests.  Utah ’s Scenic Byway 12 is a road you won’t forget!

Jamie, Photo Jeepers

Looking for more Utah content?  Click here

Washington State

Strait of juan de fuca scenic byway, wa route 112.

Washington  State Route 112, also called the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway, is one of the few must-take side routes while on the Olympic National Park Loop road. The 70-mile road plays hide and seek with the  Washington  coastline from Port Angeles in the east while leading you to the northwestern-most point of the contiguous United States – Cape Flattery . While on one side of this meandering road, you can see the snow-capped mountains of Canada across the strait which is adorned with numerous seas-tacks, on the other side you can see the evergreen hillocks of Olympic Range. Eventually you get to Neah Bay where you enter the Makah Reservation Area (privately owned by Makah Community still) leading you to a trail, to witness an unforgettable sunrise at Cape Flattery!

Vaisakhi Mishra, Just Words

US Route 191, Yellowstone National Park

(Ed:  As with Colorado, winter road closures in Yellowstone National Park prevent me from being able to create a proper map of this road trip)

Highway 191 in Wyoming starts just past the West Yellowstone Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. It must be one of the more scenic roads in the United States.

Along the way, you are likely to see bison, elk, coyotes, and maybe a bear or two. If you are really lucky, you’ll spot wolves (I have!). The road continues through Grand Teton National Park where views of the mountains almost make you forget to look for abundant wildlife. Through Jackson Hole and onto Pinedale, 191 follows the Snake River, Cache Creek, and the Hoback River. It dives under wildlife crossings where the largest migration of pronghorn travel back and forth each year.

All the way to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area on the Utah border, Highway 191 passes through wild country, ranches, and abundant wildlife – it’s a real peak into the Mountain West.

Melynda Harrison, Yellowstone Trips

Hard to imagine, but…. that’s all, folks!

Stay tuned for another installment of this collaboration next year, and if you would like to participate, please contact me !

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28 comments.

Thank you Scott. This is a trip across our “Great Country” from the comfort of your home. I am saving this for many more enjoyable hours of traveling in my easy chair. Elaine Machamer

Thank you Elaine! I’m so glad you’re enjoying it! If you have any suggestions you would like to see included on the list, please feel free to let me know!

What a good way to travel when you can’t travel! I thoroughly enjoyed the blog and am looking forward to the next one. Thanks, Scott for putting this together.

Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed it, and I will be continuing to either add to it or build similar collaborations in the future!

Thank you Scott and kudos for compiling this list! This list just made me add so many things to my USA places to see list :D. Bookmarking it! (This is so gonna help me while planning some road trips)

Thank you for your kind words! I’m so glad it will be a useful resource for you – that was the primary intent in building the blog!

Thanks for organizing this road trip post. I’m sure I will use this for inspiration on my future travels around the USA. So much more relaxing and interesting to take the back roads instead of the interstate highways.

Thank you so much for your participation! I’m grateful for your submissions, and especially for your help in finding other partners!

[…] careers. I was the latter. Upon graduating, I packed my things in boxes and made the trek from South Dakota to begin my career in […]

is it possible to drive backroads from Brattleboro vt to Menomonee falls Wisconsin? I am anxious about driving on expways and interstates would like to take backroads if possible. thanks much

Hi Connie, thank you for reaching out!

If you would please send me an email at [email protected] , I am glad to help! I will also reach out to the author for Wisconsin to see what advice they can offer you.

I know it’s been a year, but I actually now have a program where I can help you with very specific, detailed road trip planning. Check it out:

https://takebackroads.com/plan-your-road-trip/

[…] order to pull this list together, I built on the initial groundwork laid in my earlier road trip mega-collaboration.  In this installment, I delve even deeper into back road options for you to consider:  working […]

[…] Convenience is also destroying America’s incredibly dynamic culture. […]

[…] I drive on unpaved roads to reach a trailhead. The seats are very versatile, making it great to roadtrip with. Its fuel economy isn’t too shabby […]

[…] the countdown clock for departure for my 2019 Thanksgiving Mega Road Trip. Find out why I only do back roads. In addition, why am I taking a trip through the American Midwest. Learn more in […]

Great list to use when filling in the states that I have not visited on my bucket list. Seeing nature is much more enjoyable than the usual stops.

Thank you, Geri! It’s been – by far – my most successful post ever, probably for that exact reason! If you hadn’t noticed, there are still a few states that I’m missing – they are listed near the top of the post – if you would like to contribute, please email me: [email protected] Thanks!

My family is from Alabama. I moved to Missouri just over 40 years ago. Get in contact when you head for either state and I’ll give you some great info.

Great, thanks so much! Likewise in Pennsylvania, WV, or Ohio!

Absolutely!

[…] year, I collaborated with roughly 40 travel bloggers to put together the first installment of the Great American Road Trip series.  That behemoth of a post looked at the best back roads on a state-by-state basis.  While […]

[…] Part One – the Best Back Road by State […]

[…] Lastly, for a list of the best back road by state, click HERE. […]

[…] Road Trip Ideas […]

[…] Kentucky Route 80 – Cutting across the southern edge of the state, KY-80 is filled with scenic beauty and plentiful options for exploration […]

[…] What’s the best back road in California?  Click HERE […]

[…] The Best Back Road in Each State […]

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25 Best Travel Apps of 2024

Home | Travel | 25 Best Travel Apps of 2024

Travel applications are designed to help us navigate our destinations more easily and make the best decisions in various stages of our journey. Having explored the globe for years, whether on our photo tours or leisurely adventures, we’ve relied on numerous travel apps . Now, these apps have become indispensable tools in our traveling toolkit.

If you want to simplify your experience at your destination or score budget-friendly flights and accommodations, you’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll highlight some of the best travel apps to download. And, if you’re looking for ways to travel cheaply , make sure to check out our list of travel discounts , too!

To make things easier and help you find apps for specific purposes, I’ve organized the top trip-planning apps based on their functionality:

Best apps for air travel

• Best apps for accommodations

Best apps for transportation

• Best apps to find attractions and things to do
• Best apps to manage finances during the trip
• Best apps for trip planning
• Other need-specific apps

When it comes to finding cheap flights and efficiently managing your reservations, there are several travel apps that stand out. Here are some of the best ones:

1. Skyscanner, one of the best travel apps for cheap flights

Skyscanner is a top-notch platform designed to effortlessly search for and book budget-friendly flights . What sets it apart is its comprehensive tracking of all airlines along your specified route. This allows you to find the optimal choice based on factors like price, schedule, and layovers.

The Skyscanner travel app is an extension of this functionality, allowing users to search for and secure flight deals. It offers diverse sorting options that help you filter results by price, journey duration, or other preferences. If you’re accustomed to managing everything from your mobile device, Skyscanner stands out as the best application for booking flights . Using this app, you can search for flights anytime, anywhere, and complete your reservation. While it also features hotel and rental car searches, keep in mind that there are dedicated apps that function better for these purposes.

The application is free and available for Android and iOS devices.

2. Kiwi, the best application for booking flights

Similar to Skyscanner, Kiwi is a top-rated platform that helps you track all airlines servicing your desired route, ensuring you find the most affordable tickets available . The unique advantage of this platform is that it has often allowed us to find the best deals, which explains why it has been our preferred choice for some time now.

Kiwi offers an app for airplane flights , allowing you to search for and book flights without the need for a computer. It also offers various features, including the ability to set up alerts, review itineraries, modify details, access offline boarding passes, and more. Simply put, Kiwi is one of the best air travel apps that covers practically everything you need for planning flights.

This air travel app is completely free and is available for Android and iOS devices.

3. Hopper, an app for managing airplane flights

Hopper is a type of travel agency that collaborates with various airlines, hotels, accommodations, and car rental companies to streamline trip organization and planning.

While particularly popular in the United States, this travel app for flights is accessible in other countries as well, helping users simplify their search and reserve flight tickets, hotels, and rental cars. More importantly, the app operates based on an algorithm that accurately predicts flight prices in advance . If you’re uncertain about whether plane tickets will rise or fall in the coming months, Hopper can guide your decision-making. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best travel apps for exploring flight options and predicting price fluctuations.

This travel app is completely free, compatible with both Android and iOS, and available in multiple languages.

4. FlightAware, the best air travel app to track flight

FlightAware is one of the best applications for flights that provides you with real-time updates on flight statuses . Although it’s highly popular among frequent flyers, this travel app is a practical tool for anyone who wants to receive timely updates on departure and arrival times, cancellations, gate changes, and even weather conditions.

It’s undoubtedly the go-to travel app for staying informed about your upcoming flight or when you’re picking someone up at the airport.

This travel application is free and available for both Android and iOS devices .

Best apps for finding accommodations

Here is a list of travel apps you can use to find cheap hotels and other types of accommodation.

5. Booking, the best travel app for hotels

Booking is one of the best websites for finding hotels, apartments, and various accommodations worldwide. As our preferred website for booking accommodation, this app has become indispensable for us.

With this travel application , you can find and book hotels in almost any country in the world . The app mirrors the website’s user-friendly interface, allowing you to search for accommodations without any problems. In addition, you can easily book, manage, and access all reservation details, including address, check-in/check-out times, amenities, and terms and conditions. The app also facilitates direct communication with the property managers or owners to address any questions you may have.

When you make reservations through the website and access your user account, all the information automatically syncs with the Booking app.

The application is completely free and available for Android and iOS devices.

6. Airbnb, an application for finding apartments and vacation rentals

Airbnb is the best travel app for finding apartments and vacation rentals by directly connecting with the property owners. What sets this travel application apart is that Airbnb predominantly features accommodations owned by individuals, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for cost-effective alternatives to hotels.

The Airbnb app is user-friendly, asking you to simply select a destination to generate results. These results can be sorted by price, distance from the city center, and other preferences. The travel app also offers filtering options to display accommodations with specific features.

You can download the app at no cost for both Android and iOS devices. For more information, check out our guide on Airbnb .

7. Hostelworld, the best app for finding hostels and affordable accommodation

Hostelworld is one of the best apps for solo travelers , allowing you to locate and book hostels in over 170 countries around the world.

If you’re on a tight budget or a solo traveler looking for social interactions, the Hostelworld app is a go-to solution. It provides access to a diverse range of hostels, some of which rival hotels with amenities such as game rooms, dining areas, swimming pools, and communal spaces designed for shared experiences with fellow guests. This tourism application not only allows you to make reservations but also offers a unique feature; after booking, you can identify fellow travelers who will be at the hostel and initiate conversations.

Within the same application, you can also manage your reservation, make adjustments, or cancel if needed.

The app is free to download and is compatible with both Android and iOS devices .

If you’re looking to rent a car at your destination for the freedom to move without schedules and restrictions, various travel apps can assist you in finding cheap rental cars . Alternatively, if you don’t have a driver’s license or simply prefer not to drive, there are several apps to plan a road trip, facilitating easy transportation from one location to another.

8. DiscoverCars, one of the best applications for traveling by car

DiscoverCars stands out as our preferred platform for finding rental cars , featuring various capabilities to track, analyze, and compare offerings from hundreds of websites and companies, ensuring you find the option that best suits your needs.

You can use DiscoverCars to find vehicles and efficiently manage your rental. Offering a user-friendly interface, you can easily search based on criteria such as price, vehicle features, proximity to offices, and other features. Undoubtedly, DiscoverCars is among the most valuable travel apps for road trips , providing a comprehensive solution for finding the best rental options.

This free travel app is available for both Android and iOS devices.

9. Moovit, one of the best apps for using public transportation while traveling

Moovit has become one of the best apps for cheap travel , allowing travelers to opt for public transport instead of using their own vehicles. It’s an indispensable app for those relying on buses, trains, trams, subways, ferries, and more during their trips.

Through Moovit, you gain access to comprehensive schedules for all modes of public transport in a city. You can also find the best route from one point to another, making it a must-have tourism app for vacationers navigating unfamiliar cities.

Real-time arrival information is another valuable feature I love about this app, allowing you to plan your itinerary more effectively.

This free app is available on both Android and iOS devices.

10. Rome2Rio, another travel application for multimodal transport

Rome2Rio is one of the most popular travel apps for planning a road trip, capable of searching and generating the fastest routes between any two points .

When you need to reach a destination, Rome2Rio analyzes all available routes, transportation modes, real-time road conditions, and other factors to provide you with the quickest option. Moreover, the app allows you to book train tickets, ferry tickets, or any other required mode of transportation.

Rome2Rio is definitely one of the best apps for cheap travel . This application is a valuable tool for those looking for affordable travel options, as it can estimate the cost of each route, allowing you to make informed decisions based on both time and price considerations.

The app is free to use and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

11. Omio, one of the best apps for train travel

Omio is a trip-planning app that works as a transportation search engine , helping users find the most economical means of getting from one point to another.

While not my first choice for flight searches, Omio is exceptionally useful for finding and booking cheap train tickets . Through this app, you can easily search for routes, make reservations, and buy train tickets. The app also supports payment through PayPal. Omio is one of the best apps for train travel , especially if you are traveling to Europe, the U.S., or Canada.

12. Maps.me, one of the best apps for offline maps

Maps.me is an application that lets you access all the maps you’ve downloaded on your device , allowing you to easily orient yourself even when you don’t have an Internet connection. This feature is really beneficial for following your travel itinerary without reliance on constant connectivity.

Maps.me becomes particularly useful in situations where Internet access is limited. It allows you to pinpoint your location, locate major tourist attractions, and identify public transportation hubs like metro, bus, or train stations. Additionally, Maps.me covers a wide range of attractions, including restaurants, supermarkets, and other noteworthy places. Personally, I find it exceptionally handy for hiking routes due to its detailed maps. Just keep in mind that first, you need to download the maps while connected to the Internet, whether at home, in a hotel, or any place with Internet access.

While Maps.me is an effective tool, I always recommend having a stable Internet connection while traveling , not only for navigation but also for staying in touch with family and friends or addressing any unforeseen events.

This tourism application is available for both Android and iOS devices, and it’s completely free .

Best apps to find attractions and things to do during your trip

If you want to ensure you don’t miss out on anything in the city you’re visiting, or if you need to find restaurants, hotels, gas stations, parking lots, hospitals, and other essential places, there are traveler apps designed to simplify and enhance your experience.

13. Aroundme, the ultimate application for sightseeing

Aroundme is an indispensable travel app for those exploring a new city, ensuring you don’t miss out on any points of interest . Whether you’re searching for restaurants, supermarkets, medical centers, parking lots, or gas stations, this app has you covered. It also helps you find tourist attractions such as monuments, historical buildings, museums, and parks.

To enhance the user experience, Aroundme categorizes places into a detailed list. Once you select a category, all the relevant results appear with crucial information like distance, approximate prices (for restaurants, for example), and other details to help you make informed choices.

Undoubtedly, it ranks among the best travel apps for sightseeing . The application is free to download and available on both Android and iOS devices.

14. SmartGuide, one of the best apps for tourists

SmartGuide is one of the best tourist guide apps , particularly useful for travelers looking for diverse and enriched experiences. The app serves as a platform where tour guides, area experts, or fellow travelers publish informative audio guides , offering valuable insights into a destination’s history, art, culture, and traditions.

If you haven’t booked a guided tour for your city visit, SmartGuide allows you to download audio guides tailored to your interests, enabling you to explore your destination at your own pace. The app covers a diverse range of topics, including history, art, culture, and tradition, ensuring a more enjoyable trip.

The best part is that SmartGuide is entirely free and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

15. Guruwalk, one of the best apps for finding free tours

Guruwalk is one of the most popular travel apps for those looking for free tours in any city around the world. All you need to do is enter your destination city or country, as well as your trip dates, and you’ll receive a comprehensive list of available options.

This tourism application is undoubtedly the best choice for those on a tight budget but eager to enjoy a guided tour. Depending on the city, you’ll find various tours with different themes. Although the tours are free, it’s customary to offer a tip to the guide at the end of the activity. Additionally, remember to cancel your reservation if you’re unable to attend.

To get the most out of this travel app , I recommend planning ahead and booking your tours as early as possible since these activities tend to fill up quickly.

The Guruwalk app is free and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

16. GetYourGuide, the best app for finding tours and excursions worldwide

GetYourGuide is one of our favorite platforms for finding and booking tours and excursions around the world.

Through the GetYourGuide tourism app , you can search for, book, and manage a wide array of activities. Options include guided walking tours, helicopter or small plane tours, wildlife excursions, dining experiences, tickets to events, and more. Whatever your hobbies and interests, GetYourGuide offers a diverse range of activities to suit your preferences.

If you cannot attend the activity, the app provides a cancellation option. Additionally, you can contact customer service directly through the app .

Apps to manage finances during the trip

Travel management apps are another useful category of tourist applications that allow you to manage your expenses during your trip.

17. SplitWise, the perfect app for sharing group travel expenses

SplitWise is the best app for sharing travel expenses . When traveling with a group, dividing expenses can be a complex task, and SplitWise simplifies this process. Whether you prefer splitting bills evenly or keeping track of individual contributions, SplitWise ensures accuracy and eliminates potential conflicts within the group.

The app is super user-friendly. Simply add all group members, and input the expense details, including what the payment is for, the amount, the payer, and participants, and SplitWise takes care of the rest. It keeps a comprehensive record of each person’s payments, debts, and credits.

Additionally, everyone in your group who downloaded the app can access trip information, making it an excellent app for group trips as well.

SplitWise is free on both Android and iOS devices.

18. XE Currency, the best application to exchange currency abroad

XE Currency takes the spotlight as the best application for handling currency exchanges while traveling to countries with currencies other than the dollar. In most cases, I recommend using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees . But, if, for any reason, you have to exchange currency , you cannot find a travel app better than XE Currency to get it done.

This app allows you to monitor up to 10 different currencies and activate alerts and notifications to make exchanges at optimal times. It also facilitates international transfers and provides historical charts with currency information. With a range of functionalities related to currency exchange, XE Currency is a valuable travel application .

The app is entirely free and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

19. Revolut, another excellent currency exchange app

Revolut , renowned as one of the best cards for international travel , also offers one of the best apps for traveling abroad , especially for travelers who wish to keep meticulous records of their expenses during their trips. This app offers a comprehensive suite of functionalities, allowing users to manage various aspects, from making payments using the virtual card to splitting travel expenses with friends, or conducting transfers.

If you have a Revolut card , the application becomes indispensable, as it provides complete control over your Revolut account.

The Revolut app is completely free and exclusively designed for Revolut customers. It is available on both Android and iOS devices .

Best travel apps for planning a trip

If you prefer to have everything planned ahead of time, there are great travel apps out there that can help you organize your trip .

20. TripIt, one of the best trip-planning apps

TripIt is an invaluable trip-planning app that allows you to streamline all your reservations, tickets, and confirmations in one convenient place.

When planning a trip, it’s common to book flights, hotels, tours, and more from different platforms and websites, which leads to multiple confirmation emails and a lot of confusion. TripIt simplifies the process by allowing you to forward these emails, generating a comprehensive travel itinerary with all the essential information you need. The app also sends timely reminders and alerts to ensure you don’t overlook any details, making it the perfect travel app to plan a trip .

TripIt is completely free on both Android and iOS devices.

21. Packpoint, the best app that helps you pack for your trip

Packpoint is the best travel kit app that will immediately become an indispensable tool for efficient suitcase packing on all your future trips .

To tailor your packing list, simply input details such as your travel destination, date, trip purpose, and planned activities. Packpoint then generates a customized list, considering factors like weather, trip duration, and the specific activities you’ve planned. Trust me, this app is a game-changer, as it simplifies the packing process and ensures you don’t forget any essentials.

In addition, if you find yourself at your destination without a convenient place to store your suitcase, I recommend checking our luggage storage guide. This resource has proven invaluable for us on multiple occasions, especially when accommodations lack luggage storage options or don’t permit early check-ins.

Packpoint is completely free on both Android and iOS devices .

Other need-specific travel apps

In addition to the list of travel apps mentioned above, there are a few handy tourism applications that can ensure a smoother experience for all travelers.

22. Google Translate, a useful offline translation app for travel

Google Translate stands out as one of the best apps for overseas travel . It’s particularly beneficial when visiting countries where you may not be fluent in the local language.

This application has undergone significant improvements. Now, you don’t need to manually input text for translation—simply take a photo of the text or activate the microphone for spoken translations. Google Translate is recognized as one of the best translation apps for travelers , making it a must-have when visiting foreign countries. I assure you that it has come to our rescue more than once.

You can download the Google Translate app for free on both Android and iOS devices.

23. WiFiMap, the best travel application for free Internet access

An international eSIM or, in case of incompatibility, an international SIM is the best way to have Internet access while traveling . We personally use Holafly cards , which provide unlimited data at an affordable price. To make things even better, you can take advantage of our Holafly discount to use their services at a cheaper price. However, if you find yourself without these cards and need Internet abroad, WiFiMap steps in as an excellent alternative.

WiFiMap is the best travel application for Internet access, helping you locate free connection points without the need for an international eSIM or SIM card. Even if you are without Internet access, WiFiMap’s regularly updated database includes open or public Wi-Fi networks, making it a reliable option when you are in a foreign country without mobile data.

This application is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and is completely free.

24. Flush, the best app for travel emergencies

Flush is a travel application that can truly save the day. It serves as a public restroom finder , helping you locate the nearest facilities in various situations.

Flush is exceptionally user-friendly, offering an incredibly intuitive interface. Regardless of whether you have Internet access or not, this versatile app works seamlessly so you can locate a restroom even in areas without coverage. If you have data and activate location tracking on your device, Flush provides real-time information on the nearest public restrooms. Even if you don’t have Internet, you can simply enter your location, and Flush will guide you.

This application is available for both Android and iOS devices, and the best part is it’s completely free.

25. HeyMondo app, the best insurance app for travelers in case of emergency

When it comes to the best application for safe travel , the HeyMondo app stands out as an indispensable tool. HeyMondo not only offers one of the best travel insurance policies in terms of coverage and price but also provides an app with a 24/7 medical chat . This feature allows you to quickly address any medical queries without the need to visit a medical center.

Through the HeyMondo app, you can check your policy details, request medical assistance, and get other essential information. It’s important to note that this travel application is exclusively available to customers who have purchased HeyMondo insurance .

As long-time users of HeyMondo, we can attest to its effectiveness. The app is incredibly useful, providing quick and professional assistance whenever needed. Additionally, you can make the most of HeyMondo discounts to buy your insurance at an even more affordable rate.

While the app can be downloaded for free, it is accessible only to those who have an active insurance policy with HeyMondo. If you haven’t obtained your policy yet, you can do so here .

Other travel apps we frequently use

While the travel applications mentioned above cover a wide range of needs, there are a few additional ones we consider essential, especially for more specific scenarios.

Windy is the best travel weather app , providing accurate and detailed weather information. We also rely on PhotoPills , a must-have for photo enthusiasts, which allows you to plan your shots and figure out, for instance, the best time to photograph the Milky Way .

For campervan journeys in New Zealand or Australia, CamperMate is our go-to app, offering valuable information for travelers on the road. Moreover, iOverlander is one of the best apps for planning a road trip across the United States.

The world of travel apps is vast, and if you have any favorites or essential apps you’d like to share, feel free to leave a comment below. I’m always eager to discover new and useful tools. Regardless, I trust that the apps mentioned in this guide will significantly enhance and simplify your travel experiences.

Enjoy your trip!

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ 25 Best Travel Apps of 2024 ”

great list – thanks for sharing!! also this app is super great and worth a shot : ATM Fee Saver – the app gives you a list of ATMs and their fees and limits. works in over 45 countries i think. i used it in southamerica and really loved it =) best regards charlie

Hi Charlie, Looks like an awesome app. Very useful! Thanks for sharing 🙂

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Brilliant Maps

Making Sense Of The World, One Map At A Time

27 Best World Atlases For Map Lovers In 2023

Owning a least one good world atlas is a must for any cartophile or map lover. But why stop at one? Below we’ve profiled 27 brilliant world atlases all map lovers would be happy to own.

To make your life a little easier we’ve broken them down into 5 categories:

• Essential – Everyone should own at least one of these.
• Child & Student – Perfect for kids.
• Historical – For those that love history.
• Food & Drink – For those that love food and/or drink.
• Other – The world’s most interesting alternative atlases.

We’ve tried to include as much information about each Atlas as possible including reviews (from Amazon), list price (Amazon almost always sells for less), publisher, edition and publication year (so you know how up-to-date it is).

We hope you find one or two new Atlases you’ve never considered before or better yet never heard of altogether.

Essential World Atlases

1. national geographic atlas of the world.

Description: If you’ve got the budget for it you can’t go wrong with National Geographic’s 10th edition of its Atlas of the World. Published to mark the 100th anniversary of National Geographic it includes:

• Illustrated maps
• Informational graphics about changing global themes such as:
• climate change
• population and urbanization
• health and longevity
• human migration
• communications technology
• world economy
• Largest and most comprehensive collection of political maps ever published by National Geographic
• Special sections for the Oceans, Space, and Flags and Facts
• Index, with more than 150,000 place names

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: National Geographic Publication date: September 30, 2014 Edition: 10th List Price: $195.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

2. Oxford Atlas of the World

Description: The only world atlas updated annually, guaranteeing that users will find the most current geographic information, Oxford’s Atlas of the World is the most authoritative atlas on the market.

Full of crisp, clear cartography of urban areas and virtually uninhabited landscapes around the globe, the Atlas is filled with maps of cities and regions at carefully selected scales that give a striking view of the Earth’s surface.

It opens with a fascinating look at world statistics and 18 pages of stunning satellite images, all sourced from NASA’s latest Earth Observation Satellite, Landsat 8.

The extraordinarily extensive front matter continues with a “Gazetteer of Nations” that has been comprehensively checked and updated to include recent economic and political changes, and a 48-page “Introduction to World Geography,” beautifully illustrated with tables and graphs on numerous topics of geographic significance, such as the geology and atmosphere of Earth, food and water supply, biodiversity, energy, global conflict, human health, and standards of living.

The hundreds of city and world maps that form the body of the Atlas have been thoroughly updated for this 23rd edition.

Providing the finest global coverage available, the Atlas of the World is not only the best-selling volume of its size and price, but also the benchmark by which all other atlases are measured.

Review: 4.3/5

Publisher: Oxford University Press Publication date: October 1, 2016 Edition: 23rd List Price: $89.95 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

3. Oxford New Concise World Atlas

Description: With hundreds of dramatic, full-color, large-format maps produced by Europe’s finest team of cartographers, the fifth edition of the New Concise World Atlas solidifies Oxford’s position as the only publisher of regularly updated atlases at every desirable size and price.

Containing over 100 pages of the most up-to-date topographic and political maps, the New Concise World Atlas also features a new front section of satellite imagery to replace the old “Earth in Space” section, as well as new detailed maps of the ocean seafloors. In addition to this new front section, there are 16 extra pages of world maps for this new edition covering areas such as Kazakhstan, Central Asia, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Peru, and Brazil.

Recent changes to the world’s geography are thoroughly captured in this edition; fully updated tables and world statistics provide data on climate, population, area, and physical dimensions. Finally, an index with over 58,000 items make searching for lesser-known locales quick and easy.

Truly international in scope, created with meticulous care, and reflecting the very latest political developments and census information, Oxford’s New Concise World Atlas, Fifth Edition achieves the highest standard among international map resources. This engaging and affordable resource is second to none in the superb quality of its maps, the breadth of its coverage, and its easy-to-use convenience.

Publisher: Oxford University Press Publication date: November 1, 2015 Edition: 5th List Price: $39.95 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

4. The Times Comprehensive Atlas of the World

Description: Now in its fourteenth edition, the Times Comprehensive Atlas of the World continues to be the benchmark of cartographic excellence. The world atlas is relied on and trusted by governments, media companies and international organizations around the world including the United Nations and the European Commission.

New features:

• Double page map of the Arctic Ocean
• New maps of sub-ice features in the Arctic Ocean and the Antarctic
• Physical maps of all the continents

Major updates include:

• 5000 place name changes, most notably in Japan, Brazil, South Korea, Taiwan and Spain.
• A beautifully illustrated section on current issues, including climate change, economy and energy, and a new section on the power of maps.
• Updated national parks and conserved areas including the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA), the largest conservation zone in the world.
• Realignment of the international boundary between Burkina Faso and Niger resulting from the International Court of Justice decision.
• Addition of Brussel as alternative local name form for Bruxelles (Brussels) as city is officially bilingual. Now shown as Brussel/Bruxelles.
• New administrative structures in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya and Madagascar, and the addition of the new Indian state of Telangana.
• Addition of over 50 major waterfalls around the world.

Review: 4.2/5

Publisher: Times Books Publication date: September 25, 2014 Edition: 14th Revised edition List Price: $200.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

5. National Geographic Concise Atlas of the World

Description: With more than 470 maps and graphics, this atlas delivers award-winning cartography with superbly designed and amazingly informative maps and graphics providing accurate coverage of the whole world.

Including introductory sections for each continent and the flags and country facts at the end of each continental section, this atlas features stunning satellite images that portray unique physical geography and highlights the sprawling extent of major cities.

Review: 3.8/5

Publisher: National Geographic Publication date: August 30, 2016 Edition: 4th List Price: $29.95 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

Child & Student Atlases

6. national geographic kids beginner’s world atlas.

Description: Jam-packed with the latest data, bright, bold images, large maps, a brand-new design, and lively information about the world’s land, people, and animals, the third edition Beginner’s World Atlas will be the most up-to-date world reference for kids ages 5–8.

True to National Geographic’s reputation and legacy, they’ve created this atlas with the same care and attention to detail as our renowned adult atlases. “No one does maps or atlases with as much panache and knowledge as National Geographic,” said the Washington Post.

With completely up-to-date facts-at-a-glance, a glossary, pronunciation guide, and comprehensive index, this completely revised atlas takes young readers on a high-energy tour of the world and will be a must-have in every home and school.

Vibrant color, fresh design, amazing photography, and new icons will help kids quickly identify information related to land, plants, animals, languages and culture, and all aspects of the physical and political world. Parents and teachers will appreciate the front matter with information for children about maps and how to use the atlas.

Review: 4.6/5

Ages: 5 – 8 years Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books Publication date: August 9, 2011 Edition: 3rd List Price: $18.95 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

7. National Geographic Kids World Atlas

Description: National Geographic’s classic atlas for kids is now fully revised and updated, with a reduced trim that makes it easy to carry and easy to browse. Complete with geo-themed games, crosswords, picture puzzles and more, this is the atlas for today’s young explorers, as well as the perfect homework reference source.

National Geographic is committed to being the number one provider of the best atlases for young people of all ages. This new edition of the award-winning world atlas for kids includes the latest data, newest maps and graphs, a fresh and compelling design, and lively essays about the world and its wonders.

Review: 4.8/5

Ages: 8 – 12 years Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books Publication date: July 9, 2013 Edition: 4th List Price: $14.99 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

8. National Geographic Student World Atlas

Description: The new fourth edition of National Geographic’s award-winning Student Atlas of the World is more fascinating and fact-filled than ever, and has gone interactive with new digital extras, including scannable pages that link to photo galleries and quizzes.

Dynamic, user-friendly content includes photos, facts, charts, graphics, and full-color political, physical, and thematic maps on important topics. From the cartographic experts at National Geographic comes the latest edition of its award-winning student atlas, with everything kids want and need to know about our changing world!

Ages: 12 and up Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books Publication date: July 8, 2014 Edition: 4th List Price: $12.99 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

9. Wiley/National Geographic College Atlas of the World

Description: In an exclusive partnership with National Geographic, Wiley offers a powerful resource that is affordable, compact, and authoritative. It puts our world in your students’ grasp, presenting 25 global themes, from tectonics, the biosphere, and energy sources to population, health, literacy, and more, along with such timely topics as environmental stress and flash points for conflict and terror.

Review: 4.5/5

Publisher: Wiley Publication date: July 20, 2010 Edition: 2nd List Price: $11.68 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

Description: This book of maps is a visual feast for readers of all ages, with lavishly drawn illustrations from the incomparable Mizielinskis.

It features not only borders, cities, rivers, and peaks, but also places of historical and cultural interest, eminent personalities, iconic animals and plants, cultural events, and many more fascinating facts associated with every region of our planet.

Grade Level: Kindergarten – 12 Publisher: Big Picture Press Publication date: October 8, 2013 Edition: Tra List Price: $35.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

Historical World Atlases

11. atlas of world history.

Description: Oxford’s Atlas of World History is the result of years of intensive work by a specialist team of scholars, editors, and cartographers. It presents the story of humanity in its physical setting, from the emergence of the earliest hominoids to the present day.

Truly international in scope, the atlas incorporates the latest research into Asian, African, and Central and South American history, as well as the traditional core of North American and European events.

The Atlas includes sections on the Ancient World, Medieval World, Early Modern World, Age of Revolutions, and the Twentieth Century and Beyond. Each section opens with an introduction that highlights the main socioeconomic, cultural and religious themes of the period, followed by spreads of maps, text, illustrations and captions that discuss specific regions and eras.

Spreads depict everything from hunting in Africa in 10,000 BC to the kingdoms of Southeast Asia in the earliest years of the millennium, the decline of the Byzantine Empire, the growth of the Atlantic economies in the 18th century, and standards of living since 1945.

The Atlas features some 450 vivid full-color maps illustrating the major themes and events of world history, 100 photographs, 60 diagrams and hundreds of thousands of words of explanatory text.

Unique for such an atlas, the entire work is thoroughly cross-referenced, allowing the reader to move backwards and forwards in time or across the world from region to region, following themes or lines of inquiry across pages.

The new edition brings the Atlas into the 21st Century and up to the present day. New and updated maps and illustrations cover a wide range of evolving subjects such as population changes, international trading, urbanization, political and economic developments, literacy rates, the concentration of world languages, and many more important and always timely subjects.

Coverage of Africa, South Asia, Eastern Europe, and every other part of the world is revisited and updated, making this the most up-to-date atlas of world history available, in addition to being the most complete.

A comprehensive index of more than 8,000 entries includes numerous alternative name forms used over the centuries. The Atlas of World History closes with a bibliography that provides a booklist for suggested further reading.

Equally well-suited for a general audience and students of history or international relations, the Atlas of World History continues Oxford’s presence as the premier publisher of world atlases.

Review: 4.0/5

Publisher: Oxford University Press Publication date: October 15, 2010 Edition: 2nd List Price: $49.95 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

12. Atlas of the Civil War

Description: In this one-of-a-kind atlas, scores of archival maps and dozens of newly created maps trace the battles, political turmoil, and great themes of America’s most violent and pivotal clash of arms.

From the Antebellum South to Fort Sumter, the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, and the fitful peace of Reconstruction, National Geographic’s Atlas of the Civil War displays eye-opening maps—and a gripping, self-contained story—on every spread.

Eighty-five rare period maps, many seen here for the first time, offer the cartographic history of a land at war with itself: from 19th-century campaign maps surveying whole regions and strategies to vintage battlefield charts used by Union and Confederate generals alike, along with commercial maps produced for a news-hungry public, and comprehensive Theater of War maps.

In 35 innovative views created especially for this book, the key moments of major battles are pinpointed by National Geographic’s award-winning cartographers using satellite data to render the terrain with astonishing detail.

In addition, more than 320 documentary photographs, battlefield sketches, paintings, and artifacts bear eyewitness testimony to the war, history’s first to be widely captured on film.

Publisher: National Geographic; Publication date: October 20, 2009 Edition: First List Price: $40.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

13. On the Map: A Mind-Expanding Exploration of the Way the World Looks

Description: Imagine a world without maps. How would we travel? Could we own land? What would men and women argue about in cars? Scientists have even suggested that mapping—not language—is what elevated our prehistoric ancestors from ape-dom.

Follow the history of maps from the early explorers’ maps and the awe-inspiring medieval Mappa Mundi to Google Maps and the satellite renderings on our smartphones, Garfield explores the unique way that maps relate and realign our history—and reflect the best and worst of what makes us human.

Featuring a foreword by Dava Sobel and packed with fascinating tales of cartographic intrigue, outsize personalities, and amusing “pocket maps” on an array of subjects from how to fold a map to the strangest maps on the Internet, On the Map is a rich historical tapestry infused with Garfield’s signature narrative flair.

Map-obsessives and everyone who loved Just My Type will be lining up to join Garfield on his audacious journey through time and around the globe.

Publisher: Gotham Publication date: November 5, 2013 Edition: NA List Price: $17.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

14. Atlas of Cursed Places

Description: This alluring read includes 40 locations that are rife with disaster, chaos, paranormal activity, and death.

The locations gathered here include the dangerous Strait of Messina, home of the mythical sea monsters Scylla and Charybdis; the coal town of Jharia, where the ground burns constantly with fire; Kasanka National Park in Zambia, where 8 million migrating bats darken the skies; the Nevada Triangle in the Sierra Nevada mountains, where hundreds of aircraft have disappeared; and Aokigahara Forest near Mount Fuji in Japan, the world’s second most popular suicide location following the Golden Gate Bridge.

Review: 3.6/5

Publisher: Black Dog & Leventhal Publication date: October 6, 2015 Edition: First List Price: $24.99 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

15. Atlas of Lost Cities

Description: Like humans, cities are mortal. They are born, they thrive, and they eventually die.

In Atlas of Lost Cities, Aude de Tocqueville tells the compelling narrative of the rise and fall of such notable places as Pompeii, Teotihuacán, and Angkor. She also details the less well known places, including Centralia, an abandoned Pennsylvania town consumed by unquenchable underground fire; Nova Citas de Kilamba in Angola, where housing, schools, and stores were built for 500,000 people who never came; and Epecuen, a tourist town in Argentina that was swallowed up by water.

Beautiful, original artwork shows the location of the lost cities and depicts how they looked when they thrived.

Review: 3.4/5

Publisher: Black Dog & Leventhal Publication date: April 5, 2016 Edition: First List Price: $24.99 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

16. The Map Book

Description: From the earliest of times, maps have fired our imaginations and helped us make sense of our world, from the global to the very local. Head of Map Collections at the British Library, Peter Barber has here compiled an historic and lavish atlas, charting the progress of civilization as our knowledge of the world expanded.

Simply organized as a progression through time, The Map Book collects some 175 maps that span four millennia – from the famed prehistoric Bedolina (Italy) incision in rock from around 1500 B.C. to the most modern, digitally enhanced rendering.

Many of the maps are beautiful works of art in their own right. From Europe to the Americas, Africa to Asia, north to south, there are maps of oceans and continents charted by heroic adventurers sailing into the unknown, as accounts spread of new discoveries, shadowy continents begin to appear n the margins of the world, often labeled ‘unknown lands.’

Other maps had a more practical use: some demarcated national boundaries or individual plots of land; military plans depicted enemy positions; propaganda treatises showed one country or faction at an advantage over others.

So much history resides in each map–cultural, mythological, navigational–expressing the unlimited extent of human imagination. This is captured in the accompanying texts–mini essays by leading map historians–that are as vivid and insightful as the maps themselves.

They make The Map Book as much a volume to be read as to be visually admired.

Review: 4.1/5

Publisher: Walker Books Publication date: November 15, 2005 Edition: 1st List Price: $50.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

17. New Historical Atlas of the World

Description: The Historical Atlas of the World presents important periods and turning points in 5,000 years of world history in over 100 pages of thematic maps.

Atlas Features: 2015 copyright updated to include recent world events, Presents major periods of world history through more than 100 bold, colorful maps, Thematic maps include literacy, languages, religions, and more.

Review: 4.4/5

Publisher: Rand McNally Publication date: July 31, 2015 Edition: 6th List Price: $12.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

Food & Drink World Atlases

18. world atlas of wine.

Description: The seventh edition will confirm the status of The World Atlas of Wine as the most essential and authoritative wine reference work. Reflecting the changing nature of the wine scene, the Atlas details developments in climate, technique and fashion as well as new regulations made over the last six years.

A new Australian map highlights the importance of cool-climate regions as global warming takes effect, for example,while dynamic regions such as coastal Croatia, South Africa’s Swartland and Ningxia in China are covered for the first time. The world’s increasing appetite for wine is matched by a growing thirst for knowledge,which this book will amply satisfy.

Publisher: Mitchell Beazley Publication date: October 8, 2013 Edition: 7th List Price: $60.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

19. World Atlas of Whisky

Description: Award-winning author and whisky expert Dave Broom explores over 200 distilleries and examines over 400 expressions. Detailed descriptions of the Scottish distilleries can be found here, while Ireland, Japan, the USA, Canada and the rest of the world are given exhaustive coverage.

There are tasting notes on single malts from Aberfeldy to Tormore, Yoichi (and coverage of the best of the blends). Six specially created ‘Flavour Camp Charts’ group whiskies by style, allow readers to identify new whiskies from around the world to try.

This extrensively updated and extended edition features new material on burgeoning areas, including detailed coverage of many recently opened US craft distilleries, new distilleries in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and discussion of the growing whisky scene in Latin America.

With over 200 beautiful colour photographs and 21 colour maps locating distilleries and whisky-related sites, this is a stylish celebration of the heritage, romance, craftsmanship and versatility of whisky.

Publisher: Mitchell Beazley Publication date: October 14, 2014 Edition: 2nd revised List Price: $39.99 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

20. World Atlas of Beer

Description: Take a brew-lover’s trip around the world in this definitive, revised, and expanded guide.

Join renowned experts Tim Webb and Stephen Beaumont on the ultimate beer journey, covering more than 35 countries from Austria to New Zealand. This richly illustrated, comprehensive guide kicks off in Europe, travels through the Americas, and ends in Asia.

Along the way, you’ll learn about everything from the wheat beers of Bavaria, Belgium’s Trappist ales, and Finnish sahti to British bitters, barrel-aged Californian beers, Vietnamese bìa hoi, and more, with full tasting notes for over 500 must-try brews.

Webb and Beaumont also offer a fascinating history of beer and an in-depth look at the science and art of beermaking.

This newly revised and expanded edition of The World Atlas of Beer features ten additional countries—including Poland, Switzerland, Spain, Ireland, Iceland, and China—as well as up-to-the-moment beer industry information and trends. With this ultimate companion in hand, you can explore the best beers in the whole world.

Review: 4.9/5

Publisher: Sterling Epicure Publication date: October 18, 2016 Edition: NA List Price: $30.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

21. The World Atlas of Coffee

Description: Taking the reader on a global tour of coffee-growing countries, The World Atlas of Coffee presents the bean in full-color photographs and concise, informative text. It shows the origins of coffee — where it is grown, the people who grow it; and the cultures in which coffee is a way of life — and the world of consumption — processing, grades, the consumer and the modern culture of coffee.

Plants of the genus Coffea are cultivated in more than 70 countries but primarily in equatorial Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa. For some countries, including Central African Republic, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Honduras, coffee is the number one export and critical to the economy.

Organized by continent and then further by country or region, The World Atlas of Coffee presents the brew in color spreads packed with information. They include:

• The history of coffee generally and regionally
• The role of colonialism (for example, in Burundi under colonial rule of Belgium, coffee production was best described as coercive. Every peasant farmer had to cultivate at least 50 coffee trees near their home.)
• Map of growing regions and detail maps
• Charts explaining differences in growing regions within a country
• Inset boxes (For example, what is the Potato Defect? Is Cuban coffee legal in the United States?)
• The politics of coffee and the fair trade, organic and shade grown phenomena
• Beautiful color photographs taken in the field.

Americans consume 400 million cups of coffee per day, equivalent to 146 billion cups of coffee per year, making the United States the leading consumer of coffee in the world. The World Atlas of Coffee is an excellent choice for these coffee lovers.

Publisher: Firefly Books Publication date: October 23, 2014 Edition: NA List Price: $35.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

22. Atlas of Food

Description: The Atlas of Food provides an up-to-date and visually appealing way of understanding the important issues relating to global food and agriculture. In mapping out broad areas of investigation—contamination of food and water, overnutrition, micronutrient deficiency, processing, farming, and trade—it offers a concise overview of today’s food and farming concerns.

Buttressed by engaging prose and vivid graphics, Erik Millstone and Tim Lang convincingly argue that human progress depends on resolving global inequality and creating a more sustainable food production system.

Publisher: University of California Press Publication date: March 1, 2013 Edition: Updated List Price: $24.95 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

Other World Atlases

23. atlas of improbable places.

Description: It is perhaps the eighth wonder of our world that despite modern mapping and satellite photography our planet continues to surprise us.

Hidden lairs beneath layers of rock, forgotten cities rising out of deserted lands and even mankind’s own feats of engineering eccentricity lie in the most unusual of destinations.

Travis Elborough goes in search of the obscure and bizarre, the beautiful and estranged. Taking in the defiant relics of ancient cities such as Ani, a once thriving metropolis lost to conquered lands, and the church tower of San Juan Parangaricuto, that miraculously stands as the sole survivor of a town sunk by lava.

Through the labyrinths of Berlin and Beijing – underground realms dug for refuge, espionage and even, as Canada’s Moose Jaw, used as the playground for gangsters trading liquor and money over cards.

Never forgetting the freaks and wonders of nature’s own unusual masterpieces: the magical underground river shaped like a dragon’s mouth in the Philippines and the floating world of Palmerston.

With beautiful maps and stunning photography illustrating each destination, Atlas of Improbable Places is a fascinating voyage to the world’s most incredible destinations.

As the Island of Dolls and the hauntingly titled Door to Hell – an inextinguishable fire pit – attest, mystery is never far away. The truths and myths behind their creation are as varied as the destinations themselves.

Standing as symbols of worship, testaments to kingships or even the strange and wonderful traditions of old and new, these curious places are not just extraordinary sights but reflections on man’s own relationship with the world around us.

Publisher: Aurum Press Publication date: October 15, 2016 Edition: First Edition List Price: $29.99 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

24. Atlas of Remote Islands

Description: There are still places on earth that are unknown. Visually stunning and uniquely designed, this wondrous book captures fifty islands that are far away in every sense-from the mainland, from people, from airports, and from holiday brochures.

Author Judith Schalansky used historic events and scientific reports as a springboard for each island, providing information on its distance from the mainland, whether its inhabited, its features, and the stories that have shaped its lore.

With stunning full-color maps and an air of mysterious adventure, Atlas of Remote Island is perfect for the traveler or romantic in all of us.

Publisher: Penguin Books Publication date: October 5, 2010 Edition: First Edition List Price: $30.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

25. Atlas of Cities

Description: More than half the world’s population lives in cities, and that proportion is expected to rise to three-quarters by 2050.

Urbanization is a global phenomenon, but the way cities are developing, the experience of city life, and the prospects for the future of cities vary widely from region to region. The Atlas of Cities presents a unique taxonomy of cities that looks at different aspects of their physical, economic, social, and political structures; their interactions with each other and with their hinterlands; the challenges and opportunities they present; and where cities might be going in the future.

Each chapter explores a particular type of city–from the foundational cities of Greece and Rome and the networked cities of the Hanseatic League, through the nineteenth-century modernization of Paris and the industrialization of Manchester, to the green and “smart” cities of today.

Expert contributors explore how the development of these cities reflects one or more of the common themes of urban development: the mobilizing function (transport, communication, and infrastructure); the generative function (innovation and technology); the decision-making capacity (governance, economics, and institutions); and the transformative capacity (society, lifestyle, and culture).

Using stunning info-graphics, maps, charts, tables, and photographs, the Atlas of Cities is a comprehensive overview of the patterns of production, consumption, generation, and decay of the twenty-first century’s defining form.

• Presents a one-of-a-kind taxonomy of cities that looks at their origins, development, and future prospects
• Features core case studies of particular types of cities, from the foundational cities of Greece and Rome to the “smart” cities of today
• Explores common themes of urban development, from transport and communication to lifestyle and culture
• Includes stunning info-graphics, maps, charts, tables, and photos

Publisher: Princeton University Press Publication date: August 24, 2014 Edition: NA List Price: $49.50 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

26. Map: Exploring the World

Description: Map: Exploring the World brings together more than 300 fascinating maps from the birth of cartography to cutting-edge digital maps of the twenty-fist century.

The book’s unique arrangement, with the maps organized in complimentary or contrasting pairs, reveals how the history of our attempts to make flat representations of the world has been full of beauty, ingenuity and innovation.

Selected by an international panel of curators, academics and collectors, the maps reflect the many reasons people make maps, such as to find their way, to assert ownership, to record human activity, to establish control, to encourage settlement, to plan military campaigns or to show political power.

The selection includes the greatest names in cartography, such as James Cook, Gerard Mercator, Matthew Fontaine Maury and Phyllis Pearsall, as well as maps from indigenous cultures around the world, rarely seen maps from lesser’known cartographers, and maps of outstanding beauty and surprising individuality from the current generation of map makers.

Review: 5/5

Publisher: Phaidon Press Publication date: September 28, 2015 Edition: 1st List Price: $59.95 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

27. Transit Maps of the World

Description: Transit Maps of the World is the first and only comprehensive collection of historical and current maps of every rapid-transit system on earth. In glorious, colorful graphics, Mark Ovenden traces the cartographic history of mass transit—including rare and historic maps, diagrams, and photographs, some available for the first time since their original publication.

Now expanded with thirty-six more pages, 250 city maps revised from previous editions, and listings given from almost a thousand systems in total, this is the graphic designer’s new bible, the transport enthusiast’s dream collection, and a coffee-table essential for everyone who’s ever traveled in a city.

Publisher: Penguin Books Publication date: November 3, 2015 Edition: Expanded and updated List Price: $35.00 Buy: Click To Buy On Amazon

We hope you enjoyed the list. However, if you think we’ve missed any great atlases, please let us know in the comments section below.

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erik smit says

November 20, 2015 at 12:37 am

Only Anglosaxon atlases! I was hoping to find some cool Russian or Chinese atlases here…

GoatGuy says

January 10, 2017 at 8:11 pm

Sadly, no Goode’s Atlas in the list.It was – in my childhood – the most significant atlas I owned: it uniquely had little ‘cartoon colors’ maps of virtually every import/export resource, from ores to cacao, coffee to pineapples. A delight to consider where things come from, and in a way that also made clear the quantity involved.

The current is the 22nd edition. I still consider it a reference volume.

Rental24h says

June 29, 2017 at 12:09 pm

Thanks for sharing. Guess it would be great present for travel lovers.

KarenO says

October 9, 2017 at 4:02 pm

I hope the new Oxford atlases are better than the one I have (seventh edition). I want an atlas that shows each country individually. That atlas doesn’t have that. Recently, I was trying to remember what the towns were that we visited while in Russia. I checked the index for Moscow, and found Moscow, Idaho and Moscow, Pennsylvania — no Moscow, Russia — not even Moskva, Russia. What the heck?

Teresa Champeau says

May 3, 2018 at 8:25 pm

I’m looking for an atlas of the world from 1942 and another one from 1949. Can these be found anywhere? Thank you,

Ablehome says

November 22, 2019 at 6:53 am

Quite a late response, so maybe you’ve located one…but, yes, look on Thriftbooks.com. As of today, “Standard Atlas of the World. 1942 Edition” is available for sale.

YON - Jan C. Hardenbergh says

June 29, 2019 at 1:47 am

Your 2019 list should include the Times #15!!!

Winston says

May 23, 2020 at 6:01 pm

Would be nice to include one leather-bound atlas that can be personalized. These are hard to find, especially with up-to-date maps.

The Times Atlas of the World can be ordered from Collins as a “Bespoke” edition with a leather binding, but I suspect that’s outrageously expensive and takes a long time to fulfill. So far the only other “current” leather-bound atlas I’ve found is at markandgraham.com, but it’s a pocket atlas (6″ x 4.5″) that I suspect is well out-of-date.

Also, time to update this list for current editions of some of the top picks: – Times Comprehensive Atlas of the World – 15th Edition, published 6-09-2018 – National Geographic Atlas of the World – 11th Edition, published 10-1-2019 – Oxford Atlas of the World, Twenty-Sixth Edition – published 10-1-2019

David Shepherd says

May 30, 2020 at 5:54 am

what about the best Chinese atlas.

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Browse through our collection of U.S. State atlases. Sometimes, trip planning and navigating can’t be done with a standard folding map, you need more detail over a larger area. Our travel atlases are the perfect solution for the pro traveler. The atlases are expertly detailed and provide essential tips for planning and traveling through each state. Each atlas also provides suggestions of points of interest in each state that you shouldn’t miss. These atlases are functional and entertaining. Browse through the alphabetical listings below or use the search field at the top right of the page to find an atlas for a specific area. We love technology and enjoy the convenience of GPS, but planning is difficult on a phone screen and navigation doesn’t work without a cell signal. Start your next trip on the right foot with a travel atlas.  Contact us if you need help choosing the perfect atlas for your next adventure.

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I've been to all 50 states. Here are the 10 I think everyone should visit at least once.

• Over the past decade, I've traveled solo to all 50 US states and most major US national parks.
• Although I've found beauty in every state, there are some that I want to visit over and over again.
• I love traveling to places like New Mexico, Montana, New Hampshire, and Arizona.

Over the past decade, I've successfully visited all 50 US states solo. I've even made it to most of the major US national parks along the way. Because of this journey, I'm often asked which states I'd recommend to travelers.

Although most international travelers gravitate toward states like Florida and New York , I've found fantastic beauty and history in every state.

However, these are the 10 states I always return to.

New Mexico boasts a surprising variety of stunning landscapes.

New Mexico is always at the top of my list when recommending US states. Nicknamed " the land of enchantment ," it lives up to its moniker — and then some.

Those who haven't visited New Mexico may think of the state as a mostly barren desert, but it's actually the diverse landscapes that keep me coming back.

From the otherworldly dunes of White Sands National Park to the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there's beauty to be found around every corner.

Outside the natural beauty, the state is chock full of history, art, food, wine, and culture.

Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

With its vast open spaces, majestic mountains, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

The state is home to the breathtaking Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park . The sky is vast and open, the mountains are towering, and the lack of development makes me feel like I'm entering another world entirely.

California is full of diverse landscapes and experiences.

Every time I visit California , I feel like I'm entering a completely different reality.

The sheer size and diversity of the state are impressive, and it has gorgeous beaches, cities, forests, deserts, mountains, and even volcanoes.

I love road-tripping up the coast, visiting Yosemite National Park, taking a boat to the Channel Islands, and wine tasting in places like Napa and Sonoma.

There's no place quite like the Maine coast.

There's so much to love about Maine, but my favorite part of the state is the coast. With jagged and dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and lobster shacks, visiting the Maine coast is an unforgettable experience.

It's easy to find peace in the state that sees the first sunrise of the year and is home to Acadia National Park, which is one of the country's most popular national parks.

I love to road trip up the coast, stopping in beautiful towns like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbour, and Lubec.

I've returned to West Virginia multiple times.

While it may not get as much attention as some of the other states on this list, I've returned to West Virginia multiple times since my first visit.

The state's natural beauty is stunning, from New River Gorge National Park to ample lush forests, underground caverns, historic small towns, and over 200 waterfalls .

Wisconsin is home to beautiful scenery and great dining options.

Wisconsin has so much more than first meets the eye, from the natural beauty of the Apostle Islands and the 15,000 lakes in the state to the classic cheese curds, breweries, and wineries that dot the landscape.

I love spending time along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, dining at one of the state's famous supper clubs, and exploring the many Wisconsin state parks.

As my home state, Colorado will always hold a special place in my heart.

I couldn't write a list like this without including my home state of Colorado. The state has so much to offer, from beautiful views to fun activities.

On the Front Range, I enjoy hiking in Boulder and exploring Cheyenne Cañon. I like to spend the night at the The Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs before heading over to Great Sand Dunes National Park.

In the Rockies, I love driving Independence Pass to Aspen, as well as exploring the underrated Grand Mesa, which is the biggest flat-top mountain in the world . I also enjoy taking road trips to the charming mountain towns of Telluride, Buena Vista, and Steamboat Springs.

No matter where you find yourself in Colorado, there's no shortage of incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Utah is home to five major national parks.

Utah is a state that you have to see to believe. With five major national parks, 46 state parks, 15 ski resorts, and hidden gems at every turn — you'll never get bored here.

I love visiting Moab to hike in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park before heading south to Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Zion National Park .

I also love making stops in Park City and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

New Hampshire boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

The Northeast is famous for fall foliage, but I can't help but think that New Hampshire is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbors, Maine and Vermont.

I was stunned by its natural beauty during my first trip to the state. From the White Mountains to Franconia Notch State Park, the state boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

Arizona is the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

Arizona is well known for the Grand Canyon, but the state has much more to offer. From Flagstaff's high-altitude forests to Sedona's iconic red rocks, Arizona's diversity is surprising and worth a trip.

I love hiking among the cacti in Sedona or Scottsdale before heading to one of the many resorts to jump in a pool or hit the spa — the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

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World Atlas names these 8 cities the best places to live in Oklahoma. Do you agree?

World Atlas , a website publishing content about resources and entertainment on geography, has revealed eight of the best places to live in Oklahoma, including three in the OKC metro.

Here's a look at communities offering the best settings to live, work and play, as determined by the World Atlas:

As the second-largest city in Oklahoma, World Atlas cites Tulsa's arts scene, historic architecture and diverse economy as reasons for its inclusion on the list.

Industries prominent in the city include aerospace, energy, healthcare and manufacturing, according to World Atlas.

The website calls Tulsa a center for commerce and industry in Oklahoma as the city sits along major transportation routes and proximity to key markets.

Additionally, Tulsa's growing technology sector attracts startups and entrepreneurs seeking opportunities for innovation and growth.

World Atlas also lists cultural attraction in the city, including the Philbrook Museum of Art, the Tulsa Zoo and the Gilcrease Museum.

Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is the capital of the state and its largest city.

World Atlas calls the city's economy "robust" and "multifacted" citing key industries in the area including aerospace, healthcare and biotechnology.

Oklahoma City's recent growth attracts businesses, entrepreneurs and professionals seeking new opportunities, according to World Atlas.

The website says Oklahoma City has enjoyable weather year-round that accompanies its outdoor recreation at Lake Hefner or the Myriad Botanical Gardens.

World Atlas also cites the city's Museum of Osteology and various events and festivals as reasons for its inclusion on the list.

Broken Arrow

A suburb of Tulsa, Broken Arrow hosts a family-friendly atmosphere, according to World Atlas.

The website states Broken Arrow's low cost of living appeals to those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.

Major industries in the city include manufacturing, healthcare, education and retail.

It's also home to the largest concentration of technology companies in northeastern Oklahoma, according to World Atlas.

Broken Bow is home to Ray Harral Nature Park and diverse shopping and dining experiences, like the 50's Diner or the BA Juicy Seafood and Bar, according to World Atlas.

Home to Oklahoma State University, World Atlas states OSU's campus contributes significantly to Stillwater's economy and cultural landscape, which includes academic excellence, innovation and small-town charm.

Stillwater's major industries include education, agriculture and technology.

The city hosts scenic parks like Boomer Lake Park and Couch Park, according to World Atlas.

It's also home to several cultural attractions, like the Sheerar Museum of Stillwater History and the National Wrestling Hall of Fam.

Lawton, which sits in southwestern Oklahoma, is the fifth-largest city in Oklahoma and is driven by sectors such as defense, healthcare, education and manufacturing, according to World Atlas.

Home of Fort Sill, a major U.S. Army instillation, the military base provides employment opportunities and contributes to Lawton's cultural fabric, according toWorld Atlas.

The city is also home to Cameron University and the Great Plains Technology Center and holds several parks, including Elmer Thomas Park and the Three Lakes Park Complex.

Located north of Oklahoma City, World Atlas calls Enid "unique" and "welcoming" citing its blend of rich history and modern amenities.

Its major sectors include agriculture, energy, manufacturing and healthcare.

Enid also sits along major transportation routes, according to World Atlas, making it a key player in the region.

The city is also home to several attractions, including the popular Government Springs Park, the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center and the Railroad Museum of Oklahoma.

Norman is home to the University of Oklahoma, and World Atlas calls the city "a beacon of academic excellence, cultural richness and economic vitality."

Its thriving economic sectors include education, healthcare, aerospace and technology.

OU's presence significantly shapes Norman's economic landscape, according to World Atlas.

The city also sits along major transportation routes, according to World Atlas. Additionally, its close proximity to Oklahoma City adds to Norman's economic vibrancy, attracting businesses and professionals seeking growth and opportunity.

Norman offers several attractions, including Lake Thunderbird State Park, the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

World Atlas calls Edmond a "vibrant hub" in the Oklahoma City metro offering economic opportunities in education, healthcare, technology and retail.

The city sits in a strategic location alongside modern infrastructure and business-friendly environments, according to World Atlas.

The city is home to the University of Central Oklahoma and the Edmond Historical Society & Museum.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: World Atlas names these 8 cities the best places to live in Oklahoma. Do you agree?

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USA TODAY 10Best

Western wonders: 10 best small towns in the West

Best Small Town in the West (2024) April 10, 2024

The West is home to some of the most charming and scenic small towns in the country, hosting amazing art communities, tons of outdoor adventure opportunities, and top-notch dining options.

These 10 small towns — each with a population of fewer than 25,000 — have been selected by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best in the region for their diverse offerings.

No. 10: Ashland, Oregon

Located in southern Oregon, Ashland attracts thespians and theater lovers from all over with their incomparable Oregon Shakespeare Festival, ongoing since 1935. But if that’s not your thing, North Mountain Park and other nearby green spaces offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy a peaceful time outdoors. Top-notch dining, shopping, and crafts fairs and markets are also a draw.

No. 9: Durango, Colorado

Deep in southwestern Colorado is the mountain town of Durango, a place so gorgeous it's been used as the backdrop for countless films including "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," "City Slickers," and "National Lampoon's Vacation." Speaking of its natural beauty, you can enjoy the great outdoors in all sorts of ways here, from rafting down the Animas River to skiing and snowboarding at any of the nearby ski resorts. Visitors can also explore over a dozen historic sites and even Mesa Verde National Park.

No. 8: Williams, Arizona

Williams is a place for grand adventure and grand escapes, especially given how close it is to the one and only Grand Canyon (which can be accessed via the Grand Canyon Railway, built in 1901). But there's plenty of Americana charm to be found here, too, thanks to the town's connections to the historic Route 66. You'll see plenty of neon signs beckoning visitors to stop in for diner food, milkshakes, and kitschy souvenirs.

No. 7: Bainbridge Island, Washington

A short ferry ride west of Seattle is Bainbridge Island — a harmonious respite from the nearby city life. Try a yoga class at Dayaalu Yoga and Wellness Center or spend some quiet time inside one of the local museums, like the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, or KiDiMu (if you’ve got young ones along). The Bloedel Reserve is a major attraction for visitors of all ages, where you can explore 140 acres of meadows, forests, and gardens.

No. 6: Gig Harbor, Washington

Located along the South Puget Sound, this charming little town offers plenty of activities for a relaxing time in the Pacific Northwest. Bed-and-breakfasts are aplenty, as are scenic walking areas like the Chalet in the Woods and Crescent Creek Park. A history museum, multiple breweries and distilleries, eateries (fine dining as well as more casual grab-and-go spots), plus boat tours and even gondola rides are all available to enjoy.

No. 5: Manitou Springs, Colorado

Right outside of Colorado Springs is the absolutely charming Manitou Springs, where you can find everything from art galleries and ice cream shops to an old school penny arcade. But the bigger draws? Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, where you can take a tour of the caves and enjoy thrilling adventures, as well as the Manitou Incline, where the fittest of locals and visitors alike attempt to climb up 2,000 vertical feet via 2,744 steps.

No. 4: Cody, Wyoming

Named after Colonel William Frederick Cody (aka Buffalo Bill), this small northwestern Wyoming town is perfect for a Wild West-style getaway. Visitors can go on a wild mustang tour to learn about local wildlife, check out a re-creation of an old frontier town, or enjoy the outdoors at Buffalo Bill State Park. And for the history buffs, there are multiple museums in the area, including the Draper Natural History Museum, the Buffalo Bill Museum, and the Plains Indian Museum.

No. 3: Grants, New Mexico

Just an hour west of Albuquerque, you'll find Grants — a little town that offers proximity to a variety of unique and interesting experiences. After taking an obligatory photo with the Route 66 sign, you'll find plenty of things to do, including exploring the volcanic landscape of El Malpais National Monument and enjoying a drink and a bite to eat at Junkyard on 66 Brewery, a functioning auto salvage yard.

No. 2: Solvang, California

Sometimes you come across a small U.S. town that makes you feel like you've been transported to a totally different country, and Solvang is just that. Chock-full of Danish history and heritage, you'll find Danish-inspired architecture, including some truly charming windmills, Scandinavian eateries like the Red Viking, and even the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art. 

No. 1: Seward, Alaska

Known as the gateway to the majestic Kenai Fjords National Park, this port city offers an array of excursions for folks hoping to see glaciers up close, spot orcas and other wildlife, and be immersed in the culture of the Indigenous peoples of the area. The best part is there are so many ways to do all these things, from going dog sledding to enjoying a tour via kayak, or even visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center to see puffins and sea lions up close.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jonathon Stalls

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary...   Read More

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary "Walking Artist". Some of his creative work involves media/organizing with the Pedestrian Dignity project, hosting walking/rolling events and leader training with Walk2Connect (a program of America Walks), pen drawing, meditative practices, and more. He is the author of  WALK - Slow Down, Wake Up & Connect at 1-3 Miles Per Hour  (North Atlantic Books, Aug 2022). In 2010, he walked for 242 days across the U.S., walked el Camino de Santiago in 2012, and has continued to move, write, and create alongside a wide variety of longer-distance routes. Learn more:  www.IntrinsicPaths.com

Kirstie and Christine of On Airplane Mode Travels

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning...   Read More

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning LGBTQ+ travel creators and trailblazers, using their platform, On Airplane Mode, to inspire others to follow their passions while celebrating their unique identities. With the leading LGBTQ+ travel platform in the US, they have a thriving community of over 650,000+ followers. The dynamic duo craft unique storytelling content that resonates with diverse audiences, sparking positive transformation within the travel industry, making it a more inclusive and vibrant space.

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melody Pittman

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Read More

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Wherever I May Roam Blog  and is co-owner of the Southern Travelers Explore annual conference, in its 4th year, which brings CVBS and writers/influencers together from all over the country. She is a digital influencer and writes for both online and print publications, such as Travel Awaits, Charleston Home and Living Magazine, Matador Network, She Buys Travel, and more. Melody has worked with major brands during her nine-year career, such as Viking River Cruises, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Disney, hundreds of tourism boards, and GO RVing.  Melody’s first book “100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die” was released in the spring of 2023. She has a podcast, 100ThingsWV, and social channels to go along with the book. Melody loves road trips, small towns, cruising, and sharing lesser-known destinations with her followers via TikTok , Youtube, IG , and FB . After a year of full-time RV travel, she now resides in Mesquite, Nevada. 

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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The world's first doggy jet service will cost you $6K for a one-way ticket

Dogs will soon be able to experience their own “ fur st” class flight with the launch of the world’s first jet charter company specifically designed for man’s best friend. 

BARK, the dog toy company that coordinates the popular treat subscription BarkBox, is partnering with a jet charter service to take away the challenges of long-distance traveling with dogs, according to a press release. BARK Air, as the company calls it, offers the “white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.”

Taking dogs on airplanes is, typically, a stressful endeavor with different airlines having different policies for pet travel. For example, American Airlines allows small dogs in a carrier to be placed under the seat in front, but larger dogs are put in the cargo space, which has been found to be stressful for the pet. For United Airlines , pets can fly in the cabin if there’s enough space, but they must fit in a carrier under the seat in front.

“We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK, in a statement. 

First-time Fido's taking to the sky? Here are tips from my flight with a dog

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However, you’ll need to pay a hefty fee for the dog-friendly flight. For now, a ticket for just one dog and one human will run you at least $6,000 one way. 

The first BARK Air flights will take off on May 23, and so far, there are only two flight routes available, both from New York’s Westchester County Airport. From New York to London’s Stansted Airport, it’ll cost $8,000 one-way and to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys Airport will cost $6,000 one-way. Tickets are available for purchase on April 11.

Not only does BARK Air allow dogs, it also focuses on the furry friends by treating them like VIPs, the press release said. BARK Air passengers can skip TSA checkpoints and screenings and instead experience a simple check-in process where they can meet the other dogs on the flight and the humans are served a meal cooked by on-site chefs. 

When boarding, a BARK Air concierge is on-hand to ensure the dogs are socializing and adjusting to the environment well. 

Each flight will undergo “Dogs Fly First” flight prep that includes “calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer.” To make the flying experience easier and more enjoyable, dogs have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets.

During takeoff and descent, dogs are given a beverage of their choice to help their ears adjust to cabin pressurization. Of course, there will be plenty of treats on the flight.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .